Meal Replacement Program Research Articles

A Primary Care–Based Weight Navigation Program

Evidence-based weight management treatments (WMTs) are underused; strategies are needed to increase WMT use and patients' weight loss. To evaluate the association of a primary care-based weight navigation program (WNP) with WMT use and weight loss. This cohort study comprised a retrospective evaluation of a quality improvement program conducted from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Data analysis was performed from August 2, 2022, to March 7, 2024. Adults with obesity and 1 or more weight-related condition from intervention and control sites in a large academic health system in the Midwestern US were propensity matched on sociodemographic and clinical factors. WNP, in which American Board of Obesity Medicine-certified primary care physicians offered weight-focused visits and guided patients' selection of preference-sensitive WMTs. Primary outcomes were feasibility measures, including rates of referral to and engagement in the WNP. Secondary outcomes were mean weight loss, percentage of patients achieving 5% or more and 10% or more weight loss, referral to WMTs, and number of antiobesity medication prescriptions at 12 months. Of 264 patients, 181 (68.6%) were female and mean (SD) age was 49.5 (13.0) years; there were no significant differences in demographic characteristics between WNP patients (n = 132) and matched controls (n = 132). Of 1159 WNP-eligible patients, 219 (18.9%) were referred to the WNP and 132 (11.4%) completed a visit. In a difference-in-differences analysis, WNP patients lost 4.9 kg more than matched controls (95% CI, 2.11-7.76; P < .001), had 4.4% greater weight loss (95% CI, 2.2%-6.4%; P < .001), and were more likely to achieve 5% or more weight loss (odds ratio [OR], 2.90; 95% CI, 1.54-5.58); average marginal effects, 21.2%; 95% CI, 8.8%-33.6%) and 10% or more weight loss (OR, 7.19; 95% CI, 2.55-25.9; average marginal effects, 17.4%; 95% CI, 8.7%-26.2%). Patients in the WNP group were referred at higher rates to WMTs, including bariatric surgery (18.9% vs 9.1%; P = .02), a low-calorie meal replacement program (16.7% vs 3.8%; P < .001), and a Mediterranean-style diet and activity program (10.6% vs 1.5%; P = .002). There were no between-group differences in antiobesity medication prescribing. The findings of this cohort study suggest that WNP is feasible and associated with greater WMT use and weight loss than matched controls. The WNP warrants evaluation in a large-scale trial.

Short-Term Effects of Weight-Loss Meal Replacement Programs with Various Macronutrient Distributions on Gut Microbiome and Metabolic Parameters: A Pilot Study.

It has emerged the gut microbiome is crucially linked to metabolic health and obesity. Macronutrient distribution has been discussed as a key parameter in weight-loss programs, but little is known about its impact on the gut microbiome. We investigated the effects of weight-loss meal replacement programs with different macronutrient ratios on the gut microbiota and metabolic parameters in subjects with overweight and obesity. Three low-calorie meal replacement programs with different ratios of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids were designed: a balanced diet (Group B, 60:15:30), a high-lipid-low-carbohydrate diet (Group F, 35:20:55), and a protein-enriched diet (Group P, 40:25:35). Sixty overweight or obese participants were provided with the meals twice daily for 3 weeks. In all groups, diet intervention resulted in reduced body weight and BMI. The relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla decreased and increased, respectively, which increased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio in all subjects, particularly in Groups B and P. Alpha- and beta-diversity were augmented at the phylum level in Group P. In conclusion, short-term interventions with weight-loss meal replacement programs increased butyrate-producing bacteria and the F/B ratio. Moreover, the protein-enriched diet significantly increased alpha- and beta-diversity compared to the balanced diet and the high-lipid-low-carbohydrate diet.

A comparison of virtual and in person delivery of a full meal replacement program for obesity.

Full meal replacement (FMR) Intensive Lifestyle Interventions (ILI) have been used for weight management. However, predictors of efficacy with these programs are less clear. The primary objective was to assess weight loss predictors in a community-based FMR ILI program. A secondary objective was to determine if weight loss was different between virtual and in person ILI. This was a retrospective cohort study involving 234 patients who started the program between 1 January 2016 and 3 March 2021. In the 24-week program, patients spent 12weeks on FMR and then transitioned back to food for the remainder, with weekly follow up with a physician and group sessions with a dietitian. Visits were in person prior to March 2020 and virtual afterward. Patients' average age was 47.5years (SD=12.0) and 73.5% were female. Average weight loss was 14.3% (SD=6.2%). There was no significant difference in weight loss between virtual and in person programs. Patients on a Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist prior lost less weight. Other significant associations between groups were baseline Hemoglobin A1C, classes attended, as well as the age since peak weight. Weight loss from virtual ILI was not significantly different from person ILI. More research is needed to determine how to best stratify care as virtual or in person using FMR programs.

113-OR: The OPTIFAST (OP) Total and Partial Meal Replacement Program Improves Cardiometabolic Risk in Adults With Obesity—Secondary and Exploratory Analysis of the OPTIWIN Study

The effects of weight loss on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk factors using a partial or total meal replacement program (MRP) are not fully understood. We performed secondary and exploratory analyses of changes in blood pressure (BP), lipids, and global ASCVD risk in a randomized, controlled MRP trial using OP (n=135) compared with a low-calorie food-based (FB) dietary plan (n=138) that resulted in significant weight loss at week (W) 26 (reduction phase) and W52 (maintenance). Baseline characteristics were well balanced (mean [standard deviation] age OP/FB 47 [11]/47 [11] years, BMI 38.4 [5.5]/39.2 [6.2] kg/m2, females 86/79%, 10-year ASCVD risk &amp;lt;5% 87/74%, dysglycemia 52/50%). Changes in risk factors were estimated by a linear mixed model. At W26, systolic/diastolic BP were significantly reduced with OP vs FB (table), and a greater proportion achieved ≤ 130/80 mmHg (66.7% vs 53.6%, OR 2.11 [95% CI 1.10, 4.03], p=0.024). All lipid parameters significantly improved, as did the global ASCVD risk. A similar, but slightly attenuated pattern was observed at W52. In subgroup analysis by age (&amp;lt;40, 40-59, ≥ 60 years), SBP (&amp;lt;/≥ 130 mmHg) and sex, greater treatment effects were generally seen with higher SBP and age, and in men. In people with obesity at low ASCVD risk, OP significantly improved CV risk factors and global ASCVD risk. Disclosure J.D.Ard: Advisory Panel; Novo Nordisk, Consultant; Eli Lilly and Company, Intuitive Surgical, Regeneron, Other Relationship; Optum Labs, Weight Watchers International, Research Support; Nestlé Health Science, Boehringer Ingelheim Inc., Epitomee, KVK Tech. I.Neeland: Consultant; Nestlé Health Science, Speaker's Bureau; Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly Alliance, Bayer Inc. A.E.Rothberg: None. R.Chilton: None. D.De luis: None. A.H.Hawkinson: Employee; Nestlé Health Science. S.S.Cohen: Consultant; Nestlé Health Science. O.Johansen: Employee; Nestlé Health Science. Funding Nestlé Health Science

A systematic review of the economic value proposition for commercially available nonsurgical weight-loss interventions.

The study aim was to review the economic evaluation literature of commercially available and effective nonsurgical weight-loss interventions to investigate whether there is evidence to support claims of cost-effectiveness (i.e., good value for money) or cost savings (i.e., a positive return on investment). Relevant databases were systematically reviewed to identify economic evaluations of commercially available weight-loss products and services shown to result in clinically significant weight loss. Five weight-loss medications (orlistat, liraglutide, naltrexone-bupropion, semaglutide, and phentermine-topiramate), two meal replacement programs (Jenny Craig, Optifast), and one behavioral intervention (Weight Watchers [WW]) that met inclusion criteria were identified. After screening, 32 relevant comparisons of cost-effectiveness or cost savings across 20 studies were identified. Ten of twenty pharmaceutical comparisons showed evidence of cost-effectiveness based on established thresholds. Four of twelve nonpharmaceutical comparisons provided evidence of cost-effectiveness, and five made claims of cost savings. However, methodological concerns cast doubt on the robustness of these claims. Evidence of cost-effectiveness for commercially available, evidence-based, nonsurgical weight-loss interventions is mixed. There is no evidence for cost-saving weight-loss medications and only weak evidence for behavioral and weight-loss interventions. Results provide a call to action to generate more robust evidence of the economic value proposition for these interventions.

S1345 Weight Loss Outcomes With and Without Diabetes in Patients With NAFLD in a Specialty Fatty Liver Disease Program

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly linked to insulin resistance. As a result, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is commonly comorbid in NAFLD and can increase morbidity and reduce weight loss treatment efficacy. We studied weight loss in adult NAFLD patients without and with T2DM (NAFLD-DM) receiving care in the Yale Fatty Liver Disease Program (YFLDP), which focuses on the integration of medical weight management treatments and hepatology care. Methods: We analyzed retrospective data for adult patients with diagnostic codes for NAFLD and T2DM with complete data on body weight and at least one clinic visit between 5/23/2018 and 5/02/2022. Patients were categorized as NAFLD or NAFLD-DM. Total body weight loss (WL) was quantified using 0%, 5%, and 10% thresholds. Between NAFLD and NAFLD-DM groups, we compared total body weight loss (WL) and across WL threshold groups, we also compared initial weights, follow-up time, medical interventions received, and results of non-invasive liver fibrosis tests. Results: There were 933 patients with NAFLD, of whom 463 (49.6%) had NAFLD-DM. After a median follow-up of 7.7 months, 632 (67.7%) of all patients achieved any weight loss. Significantly more patients with NAFLD-DM lost weight compared to NAFLD alone (73.9 vs 61.7%, p< 0.0001). Weight loss between NAFLD and NAFLD-DM groups varied, respectively: 0-5% WL: 34.7% vs. 34.8% (p=0.98); 5-10% WL: 13.2% vs. 19.2% (p=0.01), >10% WL: 13.8% vs. 19.9% (p=0.01). Compared to those not losing weight, NAFLD and NAFLD-DM patients with >10% WL had significantly greater proportion of participation in a complete meal replacement program (Optifast®) or treatment with GLP-1 agonist semaglutide. For NAFLD and NAFLD-DM groups, there was no significant difference between initial Fibroscan stiffness or FIB-4 index and subsequent WL percentages (Table). Conclusion: The majority of NAFLD and NAFLD-DM patients receiving care in a specialty clinic incorporating medical weight management with liver care successfully achieved weight loss in a relatively short period. Patients with NAFLD-DM did not have significantly worse outcomes with weight loss, and NAFLD-T2DM patients lost more weight than NAFLD patients. These findings suggest that an integrative care liver clinic with concurrent weight management care can help patients improve metabolic diseases associated with NAFLD, particularly T2DM, and in turn improve liver-related outcomes.Figure 1.: Comparison of Clinic Interventions between No Weight Loss (WL) versus >10% WL patients with NAFLD (top panel, a) and NAFLD-DM (bottom panel, b). *Statistically significant p-values using chi-square analysis, which can be found in Table Table 1. - Characteristics of and Clinical Interventions for NAFLD and NAFLD-DM Patients in the Yale Fatty Liver Disease Program (YFLDP). There was a significantly lower proportion of patients with NAFLD compared to NAFLD-DM who were able to achieve > 10% Weight Loss (13.8 vs. 19.9, p=0.014), and significantly more NAFLD patients compared to NAFLD-DM who did not achieve any weight loss (38.3 vs. 26.1, p<0.001) NAFLD (n=470 patients) NAFLD-DM (n=463 patients) Patient Categories n (%) No WL180 (38.3) >10% WL65 (13.8) p No WL121 (26.1) >10% WL92 (19.9) p Clinic Interventions n (%) Nutrition Consultation 80 (44.4) 31 (47.7) 0.652 58 (47.9) 40 (43.5) 0.518 OPTIFAST® Program 4 (2.2) 5 (7.7) 0.045 2 (1.7) 8 (8.7) 0.016 Naltrexone/Buproprion 6 (3.3) 5 (7.7) 0.146 16 (13.2) 6 (6.5) 0.111 Semaglutide 15 (8.3) 17 (26.2) < 0.001 30 (24.8) 37 (40.2) 0.016 Liraglutide 11 (6.1) 7 (10.8) 0.217 21 (17.4) 7 (7.6) 0.037 Phentermine 9 (5.0) 10 (15.4) 0.007 15 (12.4) 17 (18.5) 0.219 Bariatric Surgery Referral 13 (7.2) 5 (7.7) 0.901 21 (17.4) 31 (33.7) 0.006 Health Outcomes mean (SD) Follow-Up Time, days 256 (276.5) 422 (296.8) < 0.001 271 (280.2) 403 (297.3) 0.001 Initial FibroScan® Stiffness, kPa 8.63 (6.72) 13.18 (14.01) 0.663 13.18 (14.01) 12.48 (12.49) 0.701 Initial FIB-4 Score 1.32 (1.13) 1.70 (1.98) 0.068 1.70 (1.98) 1.83 (2.11) 0.648 Initial Weight, kg 93.82 (25.45) 102.20 (24.90) 0.015 102.20 (24.90) 109.61 (25.07) 0.056 *Denotes statistical significance p<0.05. WL = Weight Loss.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Partial Meal Replacement Preconception Weight Loss Program for Women with Overweight and Obesity.

About half of Australian women have a body mass index in the overweight or obese range at the start of pregnancy, with serious consequences including preterm birth, gestational hypertension and diabetes, caesarean section, stillbirth, and childhood obesity. Trials to limit weight gain during pregnancy have had limited success and reducing weight before pregnancy has greater potential to improve outcomes. The PreBabe Pilot study was a randomised controlled pilot trial to assess the feasibility, acceptability and potential weight loss achieved using a commercial online partial meal replacement program, (MR) vs. telephone-based conventional dietary advice, (DA) for pre-conception weight-loss over a 10-week period. Women 18–40 years of age with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 planning pregnancy within the next 6 to 12 months were included in the study. All participants had three clinic visits with a dietitian and one obstetric consultation. In total, 50 women were enrolled in the study between June 2018 and October 2019–26 in MR and 24 in DA. Study retention at the end of 10 week intervention 81% in the MR arm and 75% in the DA arm. In the-intention-to-treat analysis, women using meal replacements lost on average 5.4 ± 3.1% body weight compared to 2.3 ± 4.2% for women receiving conventional advice (p = 0.029). Over 80% of women in the MR arm rated the support received as excellent, compared to 39% in the DA arm (p < 0.001). Women assigned to the MR intervention were more likely to achieve pregnancy within 12 months of the 10 week intervention (57% (12 of 21) women assigned to MR intervention vs. 22% (4 of 18) assigned to the DA group (p = 0.049) became pregnant). The findings suggest that a weight loss intervention using meal replacements in the preconception period was acceptable and may result in greater weight loss than conventional dietary advice alone.

A Meal Replacement Program for the Treatment of Obesity: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis from the Swiss Payer's Perspective.

BackgroundObesity is a disease associated with high direct medical costs and high indirect costs resulting from productivity loss. The high prevalence of obesity generates the need for payers to identify cost-effective weight loss approaches. Among various weight management techniques, the OPTI (Optifast®) program is a clinically recognised total meal replacement diet that can lead to significant weight loss and reduction in complications. This study’s objective is to assess OPTI program’s cost-effectiveness in Switzerland in comparison to “no intervention” and pharmacotherapy.MethodsAn event-driven decision-analytic model was used to estimate the payer’s cost savings through the reimbursement of OPTI program over a 1-year period as well as a lifetime in Switzerland. The analysis was performed on a broad population of people with obesity with a body mass index (BMI) higher than 30 kg/m2 following the OPTI program vs two comparators (liraglutide and “no intervention”). The model incorporated a higher risk of complications due to an increased BMI and their related healthcare costs. Data sources included published literature, clinical trials, official Swiss price/tariff lists and national population statistics. The primary perspective was that of a Swiss payer. Scenario analyses – for example, for patients with existing complications (such as myocardial infarction, stroke, type 2 diabetes mellitus) or severe obesity – were conducted to test the robustness of the results.ResultsThe OPTI program results in cost savings of CHF 20,886 (€ 18,724) and CHF 15,382 (€ 13,790) per person compared with “no intervention” and liraglutide 3 mg, respectively. In addition, OPTI program led to 1.133 and 0.734 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained respectively against its comparators. Scenario analyses showed similar outcomes with cost savings and QALYs gained.ConclusionOPTI program is a dominant strategy compared to “no intervention” and liraglutide 3 mg as it leads to both cost savings and QALY gain. Therefore, reimbursing the OPTI program for patients with obesity would be cost-effective for Swiss payers.

Dynamics of hepatic steatosis resolution and changes in gut microbiome with weight loss in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

BackgroundWeight loss is recommended as the primary treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the magnitude and velocity of hepatic steatosis resolution with weight loss is unclear, making it difficult to counsel patients seeking weight loss for treatment of NAFLD. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of hepatic steatosis improvement and stool microbiome changes associated with rapid diet‐induced weight loss in NAFLD.MethodsFourteen NAFLD patients (mean ± standard deviation, body mass index [BMI] 36.4 ± 4 kg/m2) enrolled in a 12‐week meal replacement program underwent frequent measurement of Fibroscan‐controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI‐Dixon method) for hepatic fat quantitation and stool microbiome analysis (16S rRNA gene sequencing) were completed in 11 subjects at baseline and Week 12.ResultsAt Week 12, mean (95% confidence interval) weight loss was −13.4 (−15.2, −11.5)% and CAP score −26.6 (−35.6, −17.6)% (both Ps < 0.001). CAP scores changed at a rate of −4.9 dB/m/kg (−30.1 dB/m per unit BMI) in Weeks 1–4 and −0.6 dB/m/kg (−2.4 dB/m per unit BMI) in Weeks 8–12. MRI‐determined hepatic fat fraction decreased by −74.1% (p < 0.001) at a rate of −0.51%/kg (−3.19% per unit BMI), with complete steatosis resolution in 90% patients. BMI change was associated with decreased stool microbial diversity (coefficient = 0.17; Shannon Index), increased abundance of Prevotella_9 (Bacteroidetes; coefficient = 0.96) and decreased abundance of Phascolarctobacterium (Firmicutes; coefficient = −0.42) (both Ps < 0.05).ConclusionsDiet‐induced intensive weight loss is associated with rapid improvement and complete resolution of hepatic steatosis and decreased stool microbial diversity. These findings highlight the dynamic nature of hepatic fat and may help clinicians to develop evidence‐based treatment goals for patients with NAFLD and obesity who undertake weight loss interventions. Further research is warranted to understand the effects of intensive weight loss and gut microbiome changes on long‐term NAFLD resolution.

Treatment of glioblastoma multiforme with \u201cclassic\u201d 4:1 ketogenic diet total meal replacement

IntroductionGlioblastoma (GBM) has poor survival with standard treatment. Experimental data suggest potential for metabolic treatment with low carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD). Few human studies of KD in GBM have been done, limited by difficulty and variability of the diet, compliance, and feasibility issues. We have developed a novel KD approach of total meal replacement (TMR) program using standardized recipes with ready-made meals. This pilot study evaluated feasibility, safety, tolerability, and efficacy of GBM treatment using TMR program with “classic” 4:1 KD.MethodGBM patients were treated in an open-label study for 6 months with 4:1 [fat]:[protein + carbohydrate] ratio by weight, 10 g CH/day, 1600 kcal/day TMR. Patients were either newly diagnosed (group 1) and treated adjunctively to radiation and temozolomide or had recurrent GBM (group 2). Patients checked blood glucose and blood and urine ketone levels twice daily and had regular MRIs. Primary outcome measures included retention, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), and TEAE-related discontinuation. Secondary outcome measures were survival time from treatment initiation and time to MRI progression.ResultsRecruitment was slow, resulting in early termination of the study. Eight patients participated, 4 in group 1 and 4 in group 2. Five (62.5%) subjects completed the 6 months of treatment, 4/4 subjects in group 1 and 1/4 in group 2. Three subjects stopped KD early: 2 (25%) because of GBM progression and one (12.5%) because of diet restrictiveness. Four subjects, all group 1, continued KD on their own, three until shortly before death, for total of 26, 19.3, and 7 months, one ongoing. The diet was well tolerated. TEAEs, all mild and transient, included weight loss and hunger (n = 6) which resolved with caloric increase, nausea (n = 2), dizziness (n = 2), fatigue, and constipation (n = 1 each). No one discontinued KD because of TEAEs. Seven patients died. For these, mean (range) survival time from diet initiation was 20 months for group 1 (9.5–27) and 12.8 months for group 2 (6.3–19.9). Mean survival time from diagnosis was 21.8 months for group 1 (11–29.2) and 25.4 months for group 2 ( 13.9–38.7). One patient with recurrent GBM and progression on bevacizumab experienced a remarkable symptom reversal, tumor shrinkage, and edema resolution 6–8 weeks after KD initiation and survival for 20 months after starting KD.ConclusionTreatment of GBM patients with 4:1 KD using total meal replacement program with standardized recipes was well tolerated. The small sample size limits efficacy conclusions.Trial registrationNCT01865162 registered 30 May 2013, and NCT02302235 registered 26 November 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/

S1016 Tolerance and Safety of Meal Replacement Program in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis With Fibrosis and Cirrhosis: A Case Series

INTRODUCTION: Cirrhosis is associated with hypoalbuminemia, sarcopenia, and nutritional deficiencies. Yet excess weight and obesity contribute to liver disease through nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Medical weight loss treatments can lead to adverse effects in those with fibrosis and cirrhosis. We aimed to characterize the safety and tolerance of a meal replacement program (Optifast®) as treatment for obesity for patients with this chronic liver disease. METHODS: The Yale Fatty Liver Disease Program provides comprehensive hepatology and metabolic care, including the Optifast® meal replacement program, an 18-week (12 weeks complete followed by 6 weeks partial) program administered by dietitians and clinicians. We extracted data on patient demographics, liver disease characteristics, and metabolic outcomes. RESULTS: Data was extracted from 5 Caucasian patients with NASH, with mean age 66.6 ± 9.2 years, starting the Optifast® program and not on weight loss medications. Of these, 4 had cirrhosis, and 2 had decompensated disease (ascites and edema) and average mean MELD score 11.9 (Table 1). All patients had at least 2 associated comorbid metabolic diseases and reported improvement. At time of program completion, patients lost between 5.5 and 43.6 lbs (3.1 to 20.8% total body weight loss), with improvement in hemoglobin A1c and total cholesterol (Table 2). During meal replacement, no patients developed new clinical decompensation nor deterioration of existing decompensation. No patient regained weight during the maintenance phase. CONCLUSION: A meal replacement program using the Optifast® program was well-tolerated and did not result in worsening clinical liver disease. Despite program non-completion by some patients, improved metabolic markers were observed in all and discontinuation was not due to liver-related nor medical complication. Meal replacement for weight loss should be further explored in patients with cirrhosis given the limited treatments available for obesity in those with advanced liver disease.Table 1.: Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Starting Meal Replacement ProgramTable 2.: Outcomes of Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis After Meal Replacement Program

Attitudes and Approaches to Use of Meal Replacement Products among Healthcare Professionals in Management of Excess Weight.

Meal replacement product-based diets are an effective weight loss intervention used in the management of obesity. Historically, these diets have been underutilised by HealthCare Professionals (HCPs). An online survey of mixed methods design was distributed to HCPs to capture current perceptions and prescribing patterns of meal replacement products (MRPs) in the management of overweight and obesity. A total of 303 HCPs working in weight management across Australia began the survey and 197 (65%) completed it. While over 70% of HCPs have prescribed MRP currently or in the past, MRPs are only prescribed to a median 7% of patients seeking weight management treatment. Qualitative analysis identified potential barriers to MRP prescription, which include experience with patient non-compliance, perceived poor long-term weight loss durability and safety concerns regarding the product and its use as a total meal replacement program. Safety concerns are centred on the perceived risk of weight cycling and its potential negative psychological impact. MRP prescription is 66% more likely to occur if HCPs had formal training in the use of MRPs relative to those who did not, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.7 (95% CI 1.4, 2.0). This study highlights the potential barriers to the prescription of MRPs, which are centred around safety concerns. This also indicates that formal training may enhance the likelihood of prescribing MRPs, suggesting that once HCPs have a comprehensive understanding of the products and the evidence behind their use, their prescription is likely to be increased.

The efficacy of meal replacement programs for weight loss

The efficacy of meal replacement programs for weight loss

Relationship of Weight-Related Eating Behaviors and Weight Loss of Participants Enrolled in a Proprietary Weight Loss Program.

Background: There is a need for improving long-term success in meal replacement programs and identifying the variables that affect weight loss and maintenance in a proprietary weight loss program that includes health coaching. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate weight-related eating behaviors of participants with clinically significant weight loss (CSWL) in a proprietary weight loss program. Study Design, Setting, and Participants: A cross-sectional sample of participants (n=1,454) enrolled in a proprietary weight-loss program that includes meal replacements and health coaching were queried via an on-line survey for weight-related eating behaviors and weight history. Main Outcome Measures and Analysis: Weight-related eating behaviors of routine restraint (RR), compensatory restraint (CR), susceptibility to external cues (SEC), and emotional eating (EE) were assessed using the Weight Related Eating Questionnaire. CSWL was defined as having achieved a weight loss greater than 10% of starting weight. Participants were dichotomized into those with CSWL (n=973) and with no CSWL (n=481). The relationship between CSWL (controlling for age and sex) as the dependent variable and weight-related eating behaviors (RR, CR, SEC, and EE) as the independent variables was assessed using logistic regression (Stata/SE 14). Results: Those with CSWL have higher odds of having RR (OR: 1.3, p<0.05) and CR (OR: 1.1, p<0.05) and lower odds of SEC (OR: 0.7, p<0.05) and EE (OR: 0.8, p<0.05) eating behaviors than those without CSWL. Conclusions: Weight-related eating behaviors of participants in proprietary meal replacement weight-loss programs who have successfully lost weight differ compared to those who have not. Knowledge of the relationship between CSWL and weight-related eating behaviors can be used by coaches to assist participants in reinforcing those behaviors that support weight-loss. These results are limited to participants who self-select for proprietary meal-replacement weight-loss programs and cannot be generalized to other weight-loss or maintenance programs.

Effects of a Milk-Based Meal Replacement Program on Weight and Metabolic Characteristics in Adults with Severe Obesity.

ObjectiveLow energy meal replacement regimens can induce short-term weight loss in patients with severe obesity, but usually require specially formulated dietary supplements. We sought to determine the effects of a milk-based meal replacement program on anthropometric and metabolic characteristics in adults with severe obesity.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients attending our hospital-based bariatric medicine service who completed a 24-week program consisting of eight weeks of milk-based meal replacement followed by weight stabilisation and maintenance phases. Patients were seen fortnightly by the bariatric physician, nurse and dietitian. We assessed changes in anthropometric and metabolic outcomes in completers at 0, 8, 16 and 24 weeks.ResultsOf 105 program completers available for follow-up, 53.3% were female. Mean age was 51.1±11.2 years. Body weight decreased from 144.0±27.6 kg at baseline to 121.1±25.0 kg at 24 weeks (P<0.001), a mean total body weight loss of 15.9±6.0%, with a reduction in body mass index from 50.6±8.0 to 42.6±7.6 kg m−2 (P<0.001). In patients with diabetes, haemoglobin A1c decreased from 66.3±13.0 to 48.3±13.5 mmol/mol (P<0.001) and diabetes medication use decreased significantly. There were significant improvements also in lipid profiles and reductions in antihypertensive medication use.ConclusionThese preliminary findings suggest that completion of a 24-week milk-based meal replacement program has large effects on important outcomes in adults with severe obesity. However, attrition was high. Prospective assessment of the efficacy, safety, durability and cost-effectiveness of this intervention seems warranted.

Barriers to and Facilitators of Weight Management in Adults Using a Meal Replacement Program That Includes Health Coaching.

Purpose: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics supports meal replacement (MR) programs as an effective diet-related weight management strategy. While MR programs have been successful promoting initial weight loss, weight regain has been as high as 50% 1 year following MR program participation. The purpose of this article is to identify barriers to and facilitators of weight loss (WL) and weight loss maintenance (WM) among individuals participating in a MR program. Methods: Sixty-one MR program clients participated in focus groups (WL = 29, WM = 32). Barriers and facilitators were discussed until saturation of themes was reached. Focus group transcriptions were coded into themes to identify the barriers to and facilitators of weight management that emerged within each phase. Queries were run to assess frequencies of references to each theme. Results: The primary barriers within the WL phase included program products, physical activity, and social settings. WM phase participants referenced nutrition, lack of health coach knowledge, and physical activity as barriers. Personal benfits, ability to adhere to the program, and family support emerged as leading facilitators for WL phase participants. Personal benefits, health coach support, and physical activity emerged as facilitators by WM phase participants. Conclusions: Health coaches have the unique opportunity to use perceived facilitators to improve participant success, and help participants address their personal barriers in order to progress through successful, long-term weight management. Current health coaching models used in MRP should aim to identify participants’ specific barriers and develop steps to overcome them.

Effectiveness of a Total Meal Replacement Program (OPTIFAST Program) on Weight Loss: Results from the OPTIWIN Study.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of the OPTIFAST program (OP), a total meal replacement dietary intervention, compared with a food‐based (FB) dietary plan for weight loss.MethodsParticipants with BMI 30 to 55 kg/m2, age 18 to 70 years old, were randomized to OP or FB dietary and lifestyle interventions for 26 weeks, followed by a weight‐maintenance phase. Outcomes were percent change in body weight (%WL) from baseline to weeks 26 and 52, associated changes in body composition (using dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry), and adverse events. Primary analysis used repeated‐measures multivariable linear mixed models to compare outcomes between groups in a modified intention‐to‐treat fashion (mITT).ResultsA total of 273 participants (83% of randomized; 135 OP, 138 FB) made up the mITT population. Mean age was 47.1 ± 11.2 years; 82% were female and 71% non‐Hispanic white. Baseline BMI was 38.8 ± 5.9 kg/m2. At 26 weeks, OP %WL was 12.4% ± 0.6% versus 6.0% ± 0.6% in FB (P < 0.001). At 52 weeks, OP %WL was 10.5% ± 0.6% versus 5.5% ± 0.6% in FB (P < 0.001). Fat mass loss was greater for OP; lean mass loss was proportional to total weight loss. There was no difference in serious adverse event rates between groups.ConclusionsCompared with an FB approach, OP was more effective with greater sustained weight loss.

Randomized Trial of a High Protein, Partial Meal Replacement Program with or without Alternate Day Fasting: Similar Effects on Weight Loss, Retention Status, Nutritional, Metabolic, and Behavioral Outcomes.

Higher-protein diets, meal replacements, and greater early weight loss have separately been associated with greater weight loss. We compared a high-protein, meal replacement program with daily energy restriction (DER) to one which provided greater energy restriction adding alternate day fasting (ADF + DER; alternating days of modified-fasting and DER plus 1 ad libitum day/week) on retention, weight loss, physiological, nutritional, and behavioral markers. Participants were randomized to ADF + DER or DER for 16 weeks (n = 162, age 40 ± 8 years BMI 36 ± 6 kg/m2 (Mean ± SD)) plus 8 weeks weight maintenance. At week 16 weight change was −10.7 ± 0.5 kg and −11.2 ± 0.6 kg in ADF + DER and DER groups (treatment NS). Fat mass, visceral adipose tissue, and lean mass (p < 0.05) were similarly reduced between treatments. Weight loss was sustained to 24 weeks (treatment NS). Fasting LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin, hsCRP, glucose, and blood pressure all improved (p < 0.05; treatment NS). Transferrin saturation, ferritin, serum zinc, folate, and B12 improved (p < 0.05; treatment NS). Plasma thiamine and vitamin D levels decreased, reflecting lower carbohydrate intakes and seasonal changes, respectively. Food cravings, quality of life, and mood improved (treatment NS). Energy, fatigue, and pain improved slightly more in DER (p < 0.05). This study supports the use of higher protein, meal replacement programs with or without ADF in weight management.

Effect of Total Meal Replacement Program Compared with a Reduced-Energy Food-Based Diet Plan on Glycemic Status—Results from the OPTIWIN Study

Background: Weight loss can resolve dysglycemia. We wanted to know whether total meal replacement (TMR) was more effective compared to a reduced-energy food based diet. Methods: We conducted a 52-week multicenter, open-label RCT in adults with a BMI of 30-55 kg/m2. Participants (n=330) were randomized to the OPTIFAST Program (OP), a TMR diet (800-980 kcal/day) with behavioral intervention, or to a reduced-energy (-500 to -750 kcal/day) food-based diet with behavioral intervention (FB) based on the Diabetes Prevention Program. In this analysis, we studied the impact of the OP on changes in the prevalence of PREDM and DM from baseline to 26 and 52 weeks compared to FB. Endpoints were analyzed using a modified intent to treat approach, including all randomized participants who initiated treatment with at least one follow-up weight measure (n=273; 82.7%). Missing data were imputed using last observation carried forward. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS Version 9.3. Results: Results are shown below. OP participants lost more weight and had greater improvement in HbA1c than FB. Diabetes remitted more in OP than in FB in observed cases at 26 weeks. Prediabetes prevalence decreased similarly in both groups. Conclusions: Total meal replacement (OPTIFAST program) led to greater weight loss and had a significant impact on glycemia in participants with DM and PREDM.Measure/OutcomeOptifast Program(N=135)Food-Based Program(N=138)Age in years, mean (SD)47.0 (11.2)47.2 (11.3)Sex, n (%)Female116 (85.9)109 (79.0)Race, n (%)Caucasian100 (74.1)95 (68.8)African American22 (16.3)37 (26.8)Asian/Pacific Islander4 (3.0)2 (1.4)Hispanic5 (3.7)4 (2.9)Other4 (3.0)0Baseline characteristicsWeight in kg, Mean (SD)106.8 (20.8)109.9 (23.2)BMI in kg/m2, Mean (SD)38.4 (5.5)39.2 (6.2)Weight change*, % of initial body weight, Mean (SD)Difference (p value)26 week follow up12.2 (0.6)5.9 (0.6)6.2 (p&amp;lt;0.01)52 week follow up10.3 (0.6)5.5 (0.6)4.8 (p&amp;lt;0.01)HbA1c change* (%), Mean (SD)Baseline5.7 (0.8)5.7 (0.7)26 week follow up5.5 (0.5)5.6 (0.6)-0.1 (p=0.08)52 week follow up5.5 (0.9)5.7 (1.0)-0.1 (p=0.04)Fasting blood glucose change* (mmol/L), Mean (SD)Baseline5.6 (1.5)5.6 (1.2)26 week follow up5.2 (0.9)5.5 (1.2)-0.3 (p=0.02)52 week follow up5.4 (1.8)5.7 (1.9)-0.2 (p=0.11)Diabetes status = Yes** in mITT*** population26 week follow up10/17 (58.8)18/25 (72.0)p=0.0752 week follow up11/17 (64.7)20/25 (80.0)p=0.19Prediabetes status = Yes+ in mITT population26 week follow up29/57 (50.9)20/49 (40.8)p=0.3352 week follow up29/57 (50.9)29/49 (59.2)p=0.44Diabetes Status = Yes in observed++ population26 week follow up7/14 (50.0)11/16 (68.8)p=0.00852 week follow up8/14 (57.1)12/16 (75.0)p=0.31Prediabetes Status = Yes in observed population26 week follow up17/43 (39.5)11/34 (32.4)p=0.6352 week follow up16/43 (37.2)15/34 (44.1)p=0.64* Change scores are adjusted for baseline value, age, sex, site, race, and diabetes status using linear mixed models.** Diabetes status = Yes when HbA1c ≥ 6.5% or subject was on anti-diabetes medication*** mITT population had a least 1 measured weight during follow up; if diabetes status was missing at a follow up time point, then the subject was categorized according to baseline status.+ Prediabetes status = Yes when HbA1c 5.7%-6.4% without anti-diabetes medication++ Observed population includes only those who had follow up at both week 26 and 52. Disclosure A.E. Rothberg: Other Relationship; Spouse/Partner; Merck &amp; Co., Inc.. Consultant; Spouse/Partner; Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. J.D. Ard: Consultant; Self; Nestlé. Research Support; Self; Nestlé, VIVUS, Inc. A. Auriemma: Speaker's Bureau; Self; Novo Nordisk Inc. S.L. Coburn: Other Relationship; Self; Nestlé. K.H. Lewis: Research Support; Self; Nestlé. J. Loper: None. L.E. Matarese: Research Support; Self; Nestlé, Abbott. S. Periman: Employee; Self; Nestlé. W.J. Pories: None.

PSY49 - Optifast® Meal Replacement Program for the Treatment of Obesity: A Cost-Effectiveness Assessment from the Employer Perspective in the USA

PSY49 - Optifast® Meal Replacement Program for the Treatment of Obesity: A Cost-Effectiveness Assessment from the Employer Perspective in the USA