Free groceries or gift cards boost weight loss for those struggling with food access

NCT ID NCT05635019

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding food vouchers or home-delivered groceries to a standard weight-loss program helps adults with obesity and food insecurity lose more weight. 105 participants were split into three groups: standard program alone, program plus grocery gift cards, or program plus home-delivered low-calorie foods. The goal was to see which approach leads to greater weight loss over 24 weeks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: food vouchers and home-delivered groceries
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward practical ways to help people with limited access to healthy food lose weight more effectively.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with 105 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The extra food support might not lead to lasting weight loss beyond the 24-week program.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Obesity obesity disorder Weight Loss

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

FOOD INSECURITY OBESITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.