Lay Health Coaches for Weight Loss: Peers Versus Mentors

A Randomized Trial Testing Lay Health Coaches for Obesity Treatment

The primary aim of this study is to determine whether reduced intensity behavioral weight loss treatment (rBWL) + Peer Health Coaches yields significantly greater weight loss than rBWL + Mentor Health Coaches and rBWL alone.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body Mass Index between 30 and 40
• Age between 40 and 60 years
• English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• Are unwilling to communicate regularly with a weight loss coach
• Report not being able to walk 2 blocks (1/4 mile) without stopping
• Are currently participating in a weight loss program, taking a weight loss medication, have a history of bariatric surgery, or lost ≥ 5% of body weight during the past 6-months
• Are pregnant, lactating, less than 6-months post-partum, or plan to become pregnant during the intervention timeframe
• Report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of rest or activity, or loss of consciousness on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
• Report a medical condition that would jeopardize their safety if involved in a weight management program with diet and exercise guidelines
• Report conditions that, in the judgment of the PI, would render the participant unlikely to follow the study protocol (e.g., relocation, dementia, terminal illness, substance abuse).