A Randomized Trial Testing the Efficacy of a Novel Approach to Weight Loss Among Men With Overweight and Obesity

OBJECTIVE: To test the efficacy of a weight loss intervention designed to appeal to men. DESIGN AND METHODS: A randomized trial tested the efficacy of the REFIT (Rethinking Eating and FITness) weight loss program compared to a waitlist control. The six-month intervention was delivered via two face-to-face sessions followed by Internet contacts. REFIT encouraged participants to create calorie deficits by making six 100-calorie changes to their eating daily while increasing physical activity and the program encouraged customization through selection of specific diet strategies evaluated each week. RESULTS: Participants (N=107, 44.2 years, 31.4 kg/m(2), 76.6% white) were randomized into the study and 90.6% provided data at six months. REFIT participants lost -5.0 kg (95% CI: -6.1, -3.9) at three months, which was maintained through six months (-5.3 kg, 95% CI: -6.5, -4.2); this was greater than the control group (p<0.001; 6-month: -0.6, 95% CI: -1.8, 0.5). More REFIT participants (49%) achieved a 5% weight loss than control participants (19%; OR 9.4; 95% CI: 3.2, 27.4). An average of 11.2 (±2.7) of 13 of the online intervention contacts were completed. CONCLUSIONS: The novel REFIT intervention produced clinically significant weight losses. This approach holds promise as an alternative to traditional behavioral therapy for men.