Self-Weighing Instruction Feasibility Study

Self-Weighing Instruction Feasibility Study

Scant data have been reported on the effects of weight self-monitoring during weight control. The purpose of this pilot project was to consider the questions: Is it possible to assign participants to engage in daily weight self-monitoring, and are there differential effects on mood of daily versus weekly weighing?

This study tested the feasibility of assigning participants to daily or weekly weighing, monitored adherence to weighing instructions, and tracked additional behavioral and psychosocial indicators over a period of six months. It was hypothesized that there would be no differences in mood or adherence between daily versus weekly weighing conditions. Knowledge about the benefits of frequent self-weighing may shape public health recommendations for regular weighing as a weight reduction or obesity prevention strategy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body mass index between 25 and 35 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current weight loss program participation
• Chronic health conditions (diabetes, cancer, heart disease, psychiatric disorders requiring medication)
• Current or past eating disorder
• Current pregnancy or pregnant in past year