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Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 1998; 106: 10-13
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1212030
Session 1: Obesity: the most extensive non-communicable disease of the 21st century

© J. A. Barth Verlag in Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

What are the benefits of moderate weight loss?

A. de Leiva
  • Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma, Avda. S. Antoni M. Claret 167, Barcelona, Spain
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Publication History

Publication Date:
14 July 2009 (online)

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Summary

Obesity is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The condition, and central obesity in particular, is linked to a number of disorders including glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinaemia, hypertension, dyslipidae-mia, impaired fibrinolysis, atherosclerosis, gall bladder disease, some cancers and osteoarthritis. Weight loss therefore benefits the individual by reducing health risks and improving the quality of life. A body mass index (BMI) of around 22 kg/m2 is related to a minimal risk of mortality compared with higher BMI values. An extensive review of clinical studies has shown the clear benefits of moderate weight loss (5-10% of baseline body weight). Thus in obese individuals for whom a substantial weight loss is not feasible, moderate weight loss should be encouraged.

Key words

Obesity - weight loss - benefits - cardiovascular risk - diabetes - hyperinsulinaemia