A 6-month randomised controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of telenutrition <i>v</i>. telenutrition supported by telemonitoring and health coaching in a weight loss programme: a study protocol

One of the main challenges in weight loss programmes is compliance with diet and achievement of sustainable changes in eating habits and lifestyles. Most clients desire to lose weight quickly, rather than looking at <i>long-term</i> changes. The literature suggests applying telenutrition, owing to its convenience and easy access in combination with both telemonitoring and health coaching, where confounding factors in the diet are tackled. A 6-month randomised controlled trial will be conducted to compare the effectiveness of telenutrition <i>v</i>. telenutrition supported by weekly telemonitoring and monthly health coaching in a weight loss programme. Participants are obese and overweight adults of both sex groups, aged 20-50 years who will be randomised to join a control or an intervention group. A total of three visits will be scheduled for all participants: at baseline, after three months and after six months. This study aims to answer the question of whether participants following a weight loss programme supported by telemonitoring and health coaching will increase their weight loss and compliance to the diet in comparison with the control group. This will be the first trial to assess the impact of integrating telemonitoring and health coaching in weight loss programmes, including the evaluation of associated confounding factors such as general nutrition education, eating behaviour, sensory modalities and hunger, and stress. This trial will support dietary weight loss programmes, contribute to the emerging field of telenutrition and provide advice for clinical dietitians and health coaches to work together to help individuals lose and maintain weight.