New study tests a smarter way to beat the Yo-Yo diet cycle

NCT ID NCT03014414

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two behavioral weight-loss programs in 321 adults with obesity and elevated blood pressure. One program taught maintenance skills before weight loss, while the other focused on losing weight first. Participants were followed for three years to see who could lose at least 7% of their body weight and keep it off. The goal is to find better ways to sustain weight loss and reduce heart disease risk.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: behavioral weight-management programs (Fun First and Weight Watchers)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward more effective strategies for long-term weight maintenance in people with obesity.
What could go wrong: This is a completed behavioral study, not a drug trial. Results may not apply to everyone, and weight regain is common. The interventions require ongoing effort.

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

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OBESITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University School of Medicine

Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States

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