{Reference Type}: Randomized Controlled Trial
{Title}: Modifying diet and exercise in multiple sclerosis (MoDEMS): A randomized controlled trial for behavioral weight loss in adults with multiple sclerosis and obesity.
{Author}: Bruce JM;Cozart JS;Shook RP;Befort C;Siengsukon CF;Simon S;Lynch SG;Mahmoud R;Drees B;Posson P;Hibbing PR;Huebner J;Bradish T;Robichaud J;Bruce AS;
{Journal}: Mult Scler
{Volume}: 29
{Issue}: 14
{Year}: 2023 Dec
{Factor}: 5.855
{DOI}: 10.1177/13524585231213241
{Abstract}: <B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Obesity is a risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis (MS) and MS-related disability. The efficacy of behavioral weight loss interventions among people with MS (pwMS) remains largely unknown.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Examine whether a group-based telehealth weight loss intervention produces clinically significant weight loss in pwMS and obesity.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Seventy-one pwMS were randomized to the weight loss intervention or treatment-as-usual (TAU). The 6-month program promoted established guidelines for calorie reduction and increased physical activity. Anthropometric measurements, mobility tasks, self-report questionnaires, and accelerometry were used to assess changes at follow-up.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Mean percent weight loss in the treatment group was 8.6% compared to 0.7% in the TAU group (p < .001). Sixty-five percent of participants in the intervention achieved clinically meaningful weight loss (⩾ 5%). Participants in the treatment group engaged in 46.2 minutes/week more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity than TAU participants (p = .017) and showed improvements in quality of life (p = .012). Weight loss was associated with improved mobility (p = .003) and reduced fatiguability (p = .008).<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Findings demonstrate the efficacy of a behavioral intervention for pwMS and obesity, with clinically significant weight loss for two-thirds of participants in the treatment condition. Weight loss may also lead to improved mobility and quality of life.