A groundbreaking study reveals that adolescents with severe obesity saw more significant reductions in body mass index (BMI) when they were given both meal-replacement therapy (MRT) and financial incentives, compared to those who received only MRT. The findings were published in JAMA Pediatrics.
Justin Ryder, PhD, Vice Chair of Research for the Department of Surgery at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and an Associate Professor of Surgery and Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, co-authored the study. According to Ryder, the study aimed to investigate if financial incentives could increase the efficacy of MRT in reducing BMI.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that severe obesity affects about one in five children and adolescents in the U.S. This condition is linked to higher risks of adult obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. Previous research has shown that MRT is more effective at reducing BMI in adolescents than traditional lifestyle modifications.
The study involved 126 adolescents, split evenly into two groups: one received MRT and financial incentives, and the other received only MRT. Financial incentives were provided based on weight reduction from the baseline. After one year, the group receiving both interventions showed a greater reduction in BMI and total body fat mass compared to the MRT-only group.
“Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, we found that despite the additional costs, providing financial incentives along with meal replacements was cost-effective,” Ryder commented. However, the authors noted the need for long-term, scalable interventions due to the chronic nature of obesity.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
