Background

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with significant recidivism regardless of treatment method. Although intensive follow-up reduces recidivism, is unattainable due to the unmet need for specialized human resources. This is the first study to assess weight loss using a fully automated digital nutritional plan generator (FADNPG).

Methods

A total of 275 patients who received nutritional plans (NP) for weight loss prior to bariatric surgery from their surgeon (P) (n=117) or a FADNPG (n=158) during a 7-month period were included. All NPs included protein supplements and one food-based meal. Data regarding weight, sleep habits, protein supplement and milk type preferences and pre-program meal and snack habits were entered by the physician into the FADNPG software, which generated an individualized NP that included a patient-specific daily protein intake and meal number, meal start time and duration, protein shake scoop portions, milk volume and food-based meal and protein bar portions. Patients sent body composition measurements weekly.

Results

P and FADNPG groups were similar in gender (86.3% vs. 88.6%), age (41.6+11 vs. 40.1+10.3) and BMI (43.1+4.8 vs. 42.5+5.9). FADNPG patients achieved greater mean %TBWL (6.07+4.5 vs. 7.61+5.1, p=0.015) at a shorter mean follow-up (14.1+8.4 vs. 13.4+11.4 weeks, p<0.0001). One-week minimum participation (91.6% vs. 95.6%) and transition to bariatric surgery were similar (54.7% vs. 48.7%).

Conclusions

Weight loss using software-generated NPs without human intervention is feasible and could facilitate obesity treatment in a global scale. Assessing weight loss when patients use the FADNPG initially and at follow-up independently is the next step.