Daily text messaging for weight control among racial and ethnic minority women: randomized controlled pilot study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Daily self-monitoring of diet and physical activity behaviors is a strong predictor of weight loss success. Text messaging holds promise as a viable self-monitoring modality, particularly among racial/ethnic minority populations.

Objective

This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a text messaging intervention for weight loss among predominantly black women.

Methods

Fifty obese women were randomized to either a 6-month intervention using a fully automated system that included daily text messages for self-monitoring tailored behavioral goals (eg, 10,000 steps per day, no sugary drinks) along with brief feedback and tips (n=26) or to an education control arm (n=24). Weight was objectively measured at baseline and at 6 months. Adherence was defined as the

SUBMITTER: Steinberg DM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3841371 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature