Modifying diet and exercise in multiple sclerosis (MoDEMS): A randomized controlled trial for behavioral weight loss in adults with multiple sclerosis and obesity.

Creator(s)

Jared M. Bruce
Julia S. Cozart
Robin P. Shook, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Christie Befort
Catherine F. Siengsukon
Stephen Simon
Sharon G. Lynch
Rola Mahmoud
Betty Drees
Paige Posson
Paul R. Hibbing
Joanie Huebner
Taylor Bradish
Jade Robichaud
Amanda S. Bruce, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2023

Identifier

DOI: 10.1177/13524585231213241

Abstract

BACKGROUND: 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.

OBJECTIVE: Examine whether a group-based telehealth weight loss intervention produces clinically significant weight loss in pwMS and obesity.

METHODS: 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.

RESULTS: 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).

CONCLUSION: 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.

Journal Title

Multiple sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)

Volume

29

Issue

14

First Page

1860

Last Page

1871

MeSH Keywords

Adult; Humans; Multiple Sclerosis; Quality of Life; Modems; Obesity; Weight Loss; Exercise; Diet

Keywords

Obesity; diet; exercise; multiple sclerosis; neurologic disease; weight loss

Recommended Citation

Bruce JM, Cozart JS, Shook RP, et al. Modifying diet and exercise in multiple sclerosis (MoDEMS): A randomized controlled trial for behavioral weight loss in adults with multiple sclerosis and obesity. Mult Scler. 2023;29(14):1860-1871. doi:10.1177/13524585231213241