Feasibility and efficacy of a novel technology-based approach to harness social networks for weight loss: the NETworks pilot randomized controlled trial.

Objective: Harnessing social support from existing social ties represents a key weight control practice. This trial evaluated an intervention that provided health-promoting technologies for leveraging the influence of existing social ties.

Methods: Volunteers ( = 36) with a body mass index between 25 and 55 kg m were randomized to a 16-week, in-person, technology-supported behavioural weight-loss treatment (standard behavioural treatment) or the same programme supplemented by providing self-selected members of participants' social networks with a digital body-weight scale and Fitbit Zip physical activity tracker (ENHANCED).

Physical activity, eating traits and weight in young adulthood: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study.

Objective: To investigate the association between eating traits (e.g. dietary restraint or opportunistic eating) and weight - both cross-sectionally and longitudinally - and whether physical activity (PA) moderates these associations.