Mobile Application and Management of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by a combination of metabolic disorders such as abdominal obesity, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. The rapid progression of obesity, combined with inappropriate eating behaviors, exacerbates MetS, making it a major public health concern. Primarily linked to an unbalanced diet and sedentary lifestyle, it significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. To effectively combat its complications, it is essential to promote sustainable solutions aimed at improving eating habits, encouraging physical activity, and fostering better weight control.  

This study explores the impact of a mindfulness mobile application (MMA) combined with a lifestyle intervention (CLI) on weight loss and eating behavior in adults with MetS.  

Do Mobile Applications Really Improve Dietary Control in Metabolic Syndrome?

Thirty participants aged 20 to 75 years were selected and then randomly assigned to two groups:

• CLI only: Weekly sessions of exercise and nutritional counseling over 13 weeks, followed by telephone consultations.
• CLI + MMA: The same CLI program, supplemented by the daily use of a mindfulness mobile application.

 
The evaluation criteria included weight loss and eating behaviors (restrictive, emotional, and external eating). Adherence to the application was also monitored over 26 weeks.  

The results showed moderate weight loss in both groups, with no significant difference. However, the CLI+MMA group demonstrated a notable improvement in restrictive eating behavior, reflecting better control over caloric intake. No significant differences were observed regarding emotional or external eating. Adherence to the application gradually declined, from 6.6 days per week at the beginning of the study to 2 days per week at 26 weeks. Finally, both groups showed high levels of satisfaction and a 100% follow-up rate.

     

A Promising but Imperfect Solution for Managing Metabolic Syndrome

Integrating a mindfulness mobile application into a lifestyle intervention proved to be feasible and well-accepted by participants. Although its impact on weight loss was comparable to that of CLI alone, the application demonstrated significant benefits on restrictive eating behavior, a key factor for weight control. However, further studies are needed to identify effective strategies to improve adherence to mindfulness-based interventions.