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The following is a summary of “Automated lifestyle interventions and weight loss: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials,” published in the March 2025 issue of International Journal of Obesity by Carris et al. 

Overweight and obesity were identified as drivers of cardiometabolic disease, and while high-intensity lifestyle interventions were the standard, many healthcare systems lacked the capacity to offer them, and many patients were unable to participate even when available.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the impact of automated digital lifestyle interventions on weight loss by identifying relevant trials.  

They identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (CRD42023435700) lasting at least 3 months that evaluated the effects of automated digital lifestyle interventions on weight loss. Data management was done using Covidence, with a double-blinded screening of titles/abstracts and full-text review for study inclusion, 1 reviewer (NWC) extracted data, which was verified by a second reviewer (MM, JS, TE, CE). The Cochrane Collaboration’s tool assessed the risk of bias, and study quality was rated as High, Moderate, Low, or Very Low.  

The results showed that 1,817 citations were identified, with 60 full-text reports assessed. Of these, 17 reports from 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (63%) were rated as moderate quality. None of the interventions resulted in a 5% weight loss from baseline. The most impactful intervention components included text message encouragement and education using a cognitive behavioral approach. Although no single method of self-monitoring was found to be most effective, some form of self-monitoring was included in the majority of trials.  

Investigators concluded that certain components of automated digital lifestyle interventions showed potential, and further research was needed to optimize these elements while balancing human contact to address overweight and obesity effectively. 

Source: nature.com/articles/s41366-025-01746-0