Managing Obesity by Combining Behavioral Weight Loss and Commercial Approaches

Managing Obesity by Combining Behavioral Weight Loss and Commercial Approaches

The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of 3 behavioral weight loss programs- Weight Watchers, university-based behavioral weight loss treatment, and a combined approach which includes university-based treatment followed by Weight Watchers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 30-65 years
• BMI between 27-50 kg/m2
• Written approval/consent from primary health care provider

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to walk 2 blocks without stopping.
• Currently participating in a weight loss program or taking weight loss medication.
• Participated in a weight loss program in the last year
• Took weight loss medication in the last 6 months.
• Participated in Weight Watchers in last 2 years.
• Lost >=5% of body weight during 6 months prior to screening.
• Pregnant, lactating, less than 6 months postpartum, or plan to become pregnant during study time frame.
• Report conditions that in the judgment of the principal investigator would render them potentially unlikely to follow protocol for the 12 month study.
• Report a medical condition that would affect the safety and/or efficacy of a weight management program involving changes in diet and physical activity.