We examined the U.S. holiday period impact on weight gain, self-weighing, and treatment success among adults in a weight loss intervention (N=171). Using electronic scales, body weight and self-weighing frequency were compared by time period [i.e., pre-holiday, holiday (November 15-January 1), post-holiday]. Self-weighing was less frequent during holiday period (p<.01), and longer intervention engagement was associated with weight gain (p<.0001) during this time. Enrollment during holiday period was associated with 2.3% 12-month weight loss. Holiday period enrollment might be beneficial for preventing holiday weight gain and facilitating successful intervention outcomes.
Keywords: Behavioral weight loss intervention; Electronic scales; Holiday weight gain; Self-weighing.
Published by Elsevier Ltd.