Texting your way to weight loss: NHS trial tests SMS support
NCT ID NCT02985307
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tested whether receiving daily text messages with weight loss advice helps people lose weight. 120 adults with obesity were split into two groups: one got standard group support, the other got daily texts. The goal was to see if the text group could lose as much weight over 3 months as the group attending in-person sessions.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
daily text messages with weight loss advice
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to help people lose weight using just their mobile phone.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed trial with only 120 participants over 3 months. The results may not apply to everyone, and text messages alone may not lead to lasting weight loss.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Elizabeth McAnally
Edinburgh, West Lothian, EH49 6SJ, United Kingdom
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NHS Lothian
Edinburgh, West Lothian, EH54 6PP, United Kingdom