Can a text message at the right time boost weight loss?

NCT ID NCT05625061

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether sending specific motivational messages at just the right moment helps young adults with overweight or obesity meet their daily weight loss goals. Over 200 participants used a smartphone app with a weight loss program, and some received extra messages targeting behaviors like weighing themselves, being active, or eating less red foods. The goal was to see if these 'just-in-time' messages improve daily adherence to healthy habits.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: behavioral intervention (just-in-time adaptive messaging via smartphone app)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could make digital weight loss programs more effective by sending the right motivational message at the right moment.
What could go wrong: This is a completed micro-randomized trial focused on short-term daily goals, not long-term weight loss. The messages may not work for everyone, and results may not apply outside this specific app and age group.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Motor Activity Obesity obesity disorder Overweight

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OBESITY OVERWEIGHT OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27514, United States

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