Binge eating predicts adherence to digital self-monitoring during behavioral weight loss

Abstract

Objective: Consistent self-monitoring of dietary intake, weight, and physical activity predicts better outcomes during behavioral weight loss, but the factors that influence self-monitoring adherence are not well understood. This study attempted to fill gaps in the existing literature by examining whether pre-treatment eating behaviors predict adherence to digital self-monitoring during a behavioral weight loss program. Method: Participants (N = 77) reported on binge eating, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating at baseline, and were instructed to self-monitor their food intake, weight, and physical activity using digital devices (food logging app, Fitbit, and wireless “smart” scale) throughout the 12-week treatment. Adherence to self-monitoring was assessed using data captured from these devices. Results: Greater baseline binge eating severity predicted greater adherence to self-monitoring of weight (ρ = 0.25, p = .03) and eating (ρ = 0.25, p = .03), but not self-monitoring of physical activity. Uncontrolled eating and emotional eating did not significantly predict self-monitoring adherence. Conclusions: In contrast to previous research, this study found that participants with greater pre-treatment binge eating severity had better adherence to self-monitoring of eating, and for the first time established a relationship between binge eating severity and digital self-monitoring of weight in behavioral weight loss. Individuals with greater pre-treatment binge eating may exhibit characteristics, such as motivation or rigidity, that are beneficial during the initial period of weight loss. Future studies should determine if there are features of analogue versus digital self-monitoring that may explain this pattern of findings, and examine these associations longitudinally.