Weight loss maintenance after a digital commercial behavior change program (Noom Weight): Observational cross‐sectional survey study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundBehavioral weight loss programs often lead to significant short‐term weight loss, but long‐term weight maintenance remains a challenge. Most weight maintenance data come from clinical trials, in‐person programs, or general population surveys, but there is a need for better understanding of long‐term weight maintenance in real‐world digital programs.MethodsThis observational survey study examined weight maintenance reported by individuals who had used Noom Weight, a digital commercial behavior change program, and identified factors associated with greater weight maintenance. The cross‐sectional survey was completed by 840 individuals who had lost at least 10% of their body weight using Noom Weight 6–24 months prior.ResultsThe study found that 75% of individuals maintained at least 5% weight loss after 1 year, and 49% maintained 10% weight loss. On average, 65% of initial weight loss was maintained after 1 year and 57% after 2 years. Habitual behaviors, such as healthy snacking and exercise, were associated with greater weight maintenance, while demographic factors were not.ConclusionThis study provides real‐world data on the long‐term weight maintenance achieved using a fully digital behavioral program. The results suggest that Noom Weight is associated with successful weight maintenance in a substantial proportion of users. Future research will use a randomized controlled trial to track weight maintenance after random assignment and at a 2 year follow‐up.