Examining mindfulness as a predictor of weight loss - Findings from the DIABEGG study

Abstract

Objective: Identifying individuals who are less likely to respond to a weight loss intervention allows better allocation or focus of resources to achieve better weight loss results. The current study investigated whether baseline levels of mindfulness would predict weight loss during a 12-month diet and exercise intervention.

Methods: The Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) was administered and body weight measured, at baseline, three, six and 12 months in 140 participants with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes mellitus and a body mass index of ≥25kg/m². 137 of 140 participants completed the FFMQ at baseline and were included in this study.

Results: There was no correlation between baseline mindfulness scores and weight loss. Mean baseline total FFMQ score was 112.2 [95% confidence interval: 109.4, 115.1] which did not change over the course of the study. Mean baseline body weight was 95.1kg (standard deviation (19.1kg)). There was a significant decrease in weight at month 12 (-3.8kg (±standard deviation 5.8kg)). This is comparable to the weight loss achieved by participants in other interventions of the same duration.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that baseline dispositional mindfulness does not predict the amount of weight loss in a lifestyle (diet and exercise) intervention.

Keywords: Diet; Exercise; Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire; Lifestyle intervention; Obesity.