The effectiveness of technology-based interventions for weight loss maintenance: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials with meta-analysis

Objective: To systematically review and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials
on the effects of technology-based interventions for maintenance of lost weight.
Methods: A systematic literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled
trials with at least one intervention arm delivered through the internet or
mobile application, published in English until September 2021. Weight change at the
end of the weight loss maintenance phase was considered the primary outcome.
Results: Twelve manuscripts with 2941 adults were included in the review; 10 studies
were meta-analyzed. Included interventions had a duration of 3–30 months and
were tested compared with minimum interventions (no contact with the study staff
or intervention with only a limited number of features) or in-person groups.
Technology-based interventions resulted in similar weight regain when compared
with minimum interventions (ES =  0.07 kg; 95% CI = [ 0.57, 0.42]; p = 0.770).
However, when compared with in-person interventions, technology-based interventions
were found to lead in significantly higher weight regain (ES = 1.36 kg; 95%
CI = [0.29, 2.43]; p = 0.010).
Conclusion: Web- and app-based interventions for weight loss maintenance produced
similar results with minimum interventions and resulted in greater weight regain compared
with in-person interventions. Appropriate interventions for weight loss maintenance
provide benefits against weight regain, only when provided in-person.