In this study, two mobile-delivered weight loss interventions resulted in clinically meaningful levels of weight loss at 6 months, with no variations in dietary tracking adherence or dietary intake. According to findings, simplified monitoring of high-calorie foods may afford a promising alternative to calorie monitoring.

• A total of 72 individuals with overweight or obesity who had children 2 to 12 years of age living in the home were randomized to a group that used simplified dietary self-monitoring of high-calorie foods (Simplified) or a group that tracked calories (Standard).

• Both groups were provided with a wireless scale, Fitbit trackers, and a 6-month intervention executed through a smartphone application with lessons, text messages, and weekly personalized feedback messages.

• In the Standard and Simplified groups, percentage weight loss at 6 months was 5.7% and 4.0%, respectively, which was not significantly different.

• At 6 months, 5% weight loss was achieved in similar proportions (43.2% in Standard and 42.9% in Simplified).

• No differences were found in number of dietary tracking days or change in average daily caloric intake between groups.