Adherence
Frequent, consistent meal planning during behavioral weight loss programs predicts greater weight loss outcomes, whereas average exercise planning frequency does not.
To lose more weight in a behavioral program, focus on planning your meals frequently and consistently. The study shows that higher average meal planning frequency is linked to greater weight loss. Don't rely solely on exercise planning, as it didn't predict weight loss in this study and might even be linked to higher BMI if it leads to overeating. Start by making detailed plans for your meals early in the program and maintain that habit.
Between participants, higher average meal planning frequency (B = −0.029, t = −3.60), but not exercise planning frequency, was associated with greater weight loss.
Why this rating
The study uses a robust longitudinal design (40 weeks, N=139) with growth curve modeling to assess trajectories, providing strong observational evidence for the association.
Source
Greater Average Meal Planning Frequency Predicts Greater Weight Loss Outcomes in a Worksite-Based Behavioral Weight Loss Program
Jacqueline F. Hayes et al. · Annals of Behavioral Medicine · 2020
DOI 10.1093/abm/kaaa021
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