JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

A multi-disciplinary approach to weight management is offered at tier three services. Encouraging dietary change is a major aim.

Objective:

This research sought to trial an inhibitory control training smartphone-app, FoodT, with the clinic population of one, weight management

Methods:

FoodT was offered to patients during a routine clinic appointment, and patients were asked to use the app at home, every day for the first week, and once a week for the rest of the month. A battery of tests was given before and after use to assess changes to food choice and experience.

Results:

Twelve families consented (38.7% of those approached), only one participant achieved the recommended training schedule, and no participants completed post-trial measures. Reasons for non-participation included not considering their weight to be connected to eating choices, and not feeling the app suited their needs.

Conclusions:

It is unclear whether the intervention or the research processes prevented completion. Regardless, future interventions should seek to take a patient-centred approach to design, work to reduce connotations of blame that may deter engagement, and utilise familiar clinician staff to support recruitment.