‘Say no’: a feasibility trial of a brief intervention to reduce instances of indulgent energy‐intake episodes

The aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of a brief intervention to reduce instances of indulgent energy intake. Forty‐five participants with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg m⁻² were randomized to one of three groups for 8 weeks. The control group was asked to complete a questionnaire every 4 days, the self‐monitoring group was given the same instructions but also asked to ’say no’ to indulgences. The self‐monitoring and feedback group was asked to do the same but in addition to send a photograph or description of that to which they had ‘said no’ and were then provided with feedback. All participants reported on indulgences for 7 days prospectively at baseline and 8‐week follow‐up. The follow‐up rate was 80%; completion of questionnaires was 63% and 87 text messages were sent. The control group reduced their indulgences by 4.1 (SD 10.0), the self‐monitoring group by 13.8 (SD 16.8) and self‐monitoring and feedback group by 9.0 (SD 11.7) per week. All bar one, feasibility progression criteria were met and this was the return of the indulgence diaries during the intervention period. The study demonstrates the feasibility of a brief intervention to reduce the number of indulgences people ate. The progression criteria were met and areas of improvement are highlighted.