Weight management in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A randomized controlled trial of two dietary approaches.

Background: The prevalence of obesity among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is equal to or greater than the general population.

Methods: Overweight/obese adults (BMI ≥25 kg/m ) with mild-to-moderate intellectual and developmental disabilities were randomized to an enhanced stop light diet (eSLD = SLD + portion-controlled meals, n = 78) or a conventional diet (CD, n = 72) for an 18 months trial (6 months weight loss, 12 months maintenance). Participants were asked to increase physical activity (150 min/week), self-monitor diet and physical activity and attend counselling/educational sessions during monthly home visits.

Results: Weight loss (6 months) was significantly greater in the eSLD (-7.0% ± 5.0%) compared with the CD group (-3.8% ± 5.1%, p < .001). However, at 18 months, weight loss between groups did not differ significantly (eSLD = -6.7% ± 8.3%; CD = 6.4% ± 8.6%; p = .82).

Conclusion: The eSLD and CD provided clinically meaningful weight loss over 18 months in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.