Abstract
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a global public health concern, affecting roughly 1 in 3 individuals. Social support has been identified as a key factor in promoting healthy behaviors, including dietary improvements and increased physical activity. While previous reviews have focused primarily on weight loss outcomes, there is limited evidence on how social support-based interventions specifically influence diet and physical activity behaviors. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate (1) the effectiveness of social support-based interventions in improving dietary and physical activity behaviors among adults living with overweight and obesity (plus weight changes and psychosocial factors as secondary outcomes) and (2) identify which types of social support are most effective in facilitating positive behavioral changes. METHODS: A comprehensive search will be conducted across 7 databases and registers (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov) and gray literature sources (Google Scholar, ProQuest, and PsyArXiv), in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Two independent reviewers will screen randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies involving adults living with overweight or obesity who have participated in social support-based interventions targeting diet and physical activity. The revised Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools will be used to assess the risk of bias. Findings will be reported qualitatively, and where appropriate, meta-analyses will be performed to generate pooled effect estimates for the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes will also be reported qualitatively. RESULTS: A pilot database search was conducted on November 29, 2024, to refine the search syntax. The screening, data extraction, quality assessment, and analysis will be conducted, with completion expected by March 2026. CONCLUSIONS: This review will synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness of social support-based interventions for improving diet and physical activity among adults living with overweight and obesity. The findings will help inform the development of future interventions and contribute to public health strategies.