Impact of COVID-19 on a worksite weight loss program for employees with overweight and obesity

ObjectiveThe COVID-19 pandemic has been shown to be negatively associated with physical activity engagement, adherence to healthy diet, and weight management among people with obesity. The current study examined COVID-19-related changes in weight, physical activity (PA), and diet among employees with obesity or overweight who participated in Vibrant Lives (VL), a worksite weight loss program. MethodsSchool district employees participated in the 6-month VL weight loss program and were categorized into non-COVID-era participants and COVID-era participants. Participants completed questionnaires about PA and dietary intake at baseline and follow-up. COVID-era participants reported the effects of pandemic on their behaviors. Changes in weight, PA, and diet were compared between groups using multilevel linear mixed models and logistic regression models. ResultsA total of 266 participants (non-COVID, n = 173; COVID, n = 93) were included. Significant weight loss (non-COVID, -2.3 kg vs. COVID, -1.3 kg) and increases in moderate-to-vigorous PA minutes (non-COVID, 48.7 min vs. COVID, 61.5 min) were observed associated with the program, but no significant differences in changes between the groups were found. Compared to non-COVID participants, COVID participants decreased fast food consumption (p = 0.008) and increased sugar-sweetened beverage intake (p = 0.016). Higher frequency of snacking and overeating were reported as barriers to a healthy diet. ConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic was negatively associated with healthful dietary behaviors. The information obtained from participants regarding the reasons for their pandemic-related changes in diet may help identify strategies to encourage healthier behaviors and weight management among people who have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Automated summary

This study investigated the impact of COVID-19 on weight, physical activity, and diet among employees participating in a worksite weight loss program. The results showed significant weight loss and increased physical activity associated with the program, but no significant differences between non-COVID and COVID participants. COVID participants reduced fast food consumption and increased sugar-sweetened beverage intake compared to non-COVID participants. Snacking and overeating were reported as barriers to a healthy diet.