Research

Adherence

Videoconference-delivered group weight loss programs achieve clinically significant weight loss (mean 7.4% in completers) comparable to in-person delivery, with higher retention rates in videoconference formats.

If you are looking for a weight loss program, a videoconference-based group program can be just as effective as meeting in person. In fact, people in videoconference groups were more likely to stick with it and report their weight. Look for programs that offer weekly group support, clear nutritional guidelines (like high fiber and balanced macros), and tools for tracking progress. The format (online vs. in-person) matters less than the consistency of the support and the nutritional strategy.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Mean %WL in complete reporters... was 7.4 6 3.6... Videoconference participants... were more likely to be complete reporters (P < 0.004)... %WL at 11 weeks was not associated with... videoconference versus in-person groups.
Sai Krupa Das et al. · Obesity · 2017

Why this rating

The study is an observational analysis of commercial program data, not a randomized controlled trial, though it uses rigorous statistical controls (ANCOVA) and validates self-reported weight against a prior RCT.

Source

Weight loss in videoconference and in‐person iDiet weight loss programs in worksites and community groups

Sai Krupa Das et al. · Obesity · 2017

DOI 10.1002/oby.21854

cohort · n=644Cited 23×
Read the paper
DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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