GROWell App Fails to Curb Pregnancy Weight Gain
Mobile health intervention does not significantly reduce excessive gestational weight gain or postpartum weight retention in randomized trial
By
Alun Evans
March 4, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: GROWell App Fails to Curb Pregnancy Weight Gain
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Excessive Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) and Postpartum Weight Retention (PPWR) Key Mechanisms Personalized dietary goals delivered via mobile app or text messaging, based on self-regulation and social cognitive theory. Target Population Pregnant women with pre-pregnancy BMI between 25 and 42 kg/m², 10–16 weeks’ gestation. Care Setting Remote, app-based intervention.
Key Highlights
No significant reduction in excessive GWG or PPWR compared to control group. 35% of intervention group experienced excessive GWG; 36% in control group. 23% of intervention group met criteria for PPWR at 6 months postpartum; 26% in control group. Adherence to dietary goal tracking averaged 72% among intervention participants. Study cohort was racially and ethnically diverse. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Monitor gestational weight gain according to Institute of Medicine recommendations. Management
Consider personalized dietary interventions, but assess effectiveness in diverse populations. Monitoring & Follow-up
Utilize remote weight monitoring tools like Bluetooth scales for self-weighing. Risks
Potential for excessive GWG and PPWR remains high in populations with overweight or obesity. Patient & Prescribing Data
Pregnant women with overweight or obesity.
Intervention did not outperform control; further studies needed to explore timing and content tailoring.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate physical activity components into dietary interventions. Culturally tailor content and goals to specific demographics. Improve program reach to include participants with lower educational levels. References
