Adherence
The Behavioral Change Technique 'Instruction on how to perform behaviour' is associated with weight GAIN (mean weight change +2.53 kg) rather than loss, suggesting it may be counterproductive in brief, opportunistic primary care advice.
Avoid using 'Instruction on how to perform behaviour' (like handing out leaflets or directing to websites) as a primary strategy in brief weight loss advice. This study found it was associated with weight gain, likely because it is used as a 'simple way to intervene' with patients who are less ready to change. Instead, focus on motivational feedback and follow-up.
people who received a brief intervention that involved ‘instruction on how to perform behaviour’ gained more weight on average (adjusted mean weight change) was 2.53 kg (95% CI = 0.10–4.96, p = 0.04)
Why this rating
Statistically significant association with weight gain in a randomized trial.
Source
GP delivered brief weight loss advice: associations between in-consultation behaviour change techniques and patient weight loss in recorded primary care discussions
Eleanor Ayre et al. · Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine · 2023
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