ReDIRECT: Remote Diet Intervention to REduce long Covid symptoms Trial

WHY THIS RESEARCH IS IMPORTANT Around 10% of people infected with COVID-19 have symptoms for 12 weeks or longer (Long COVID). People with Long COVID also have overweight/obesity to a similar extent than the rest of the population (~70%), which may worsen their symptoms. Weight management programmes in adults with overweight /obesity can reduce symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness and pains, also common with Long COVID. However, we do not know how effective intentional weight loss is to reduce symptoms for people with Long COVID. The aim of this project is to test a well-established weight management programme, delivered and supported entirely remotely, in people with Long COVID. OUR PLAN 1. We will adapt an established weight management programme and its evaluation for people with Long COVID, through stakeholder workshops with patients, carers and staff. 2. A trial will be conducted with 200 people with Long COVID, identified through their GP, patient groups or social media. We will allocate 100 individuals to receive the personalised, professionally-supported weight management programme, 100 to usual care, and compare Long COVID symptoms, weight loss, quality of life and value for money after 6 months. After 6 months, the intervention will be provided for the control group. Experiences will be documented for 12 months. INVOLVEMENT OF PATIENTS AND STAKEHOLDERS People with Long COVID have been involved extensively in developing this project. Their priorities are to reduce symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness and pain. They are keen to explore if effective weight management would help their symptoms and overall functioning, especially a programme that can be followed remotely from home. A group of patients and other stakeholders will provide advice throughout the project. SHARING OUR FINDINGS We will use our relationships with patient organisations, stakeholders and the research community to share findings using traditional and social media.