Dietary treatments of obesity

Abstract

Numerous dietary treatments that purport to promote something unique for stimulating weight loss have been published. These treatments include fad diets, diets formulated by various commercial slimming clubs, very-low-energy diets (VLCD) and conventional diets. Fad diets may possibly reduce some weight short-term; however, there is no scientific basis to their long-term use. Commercial slimming clubs may be suitable for some individuals but they need to be properly assessed professionally. There are specific guidelines for the use of VLCD, which are only appropriate for short-term use. There is scientific evidence to suggest that conventional diets can produce both short- and long-term weight loss. A successful weight-loss programme depends on a multidisciplinary team approach. Management strategies should be devised for addressing issues such as goals, monitoring, follow-up, relapse and evaluation. Initial assessments should include medical, laboratory and anthropometric data, fitness level and dietary and behavioural attitudes. These results will form the basis of the treatment plan. Frequent visits to the clinic are fundamental in promoting continuing weight loss during the long-term maintenance stage of treatment. The visits should be made worthwhile for the patient. Realistic and attainable goals for diet, exercise and behaviour modification should be made. The diet should have a novel approach and be tailored to the needs of the patient. It should be adequate nutritionally, low in energy and fat. The overall aim should be to promote lifelong changes in lifestyle, improvement in quality of life and health risks.

Management of Obesity as a Chronic Disease: Nonpharmacologic, Pharmacologic, and Surgical Options

“…Moreover, once weight loss has occurred, the lower energy intake must be sustained to prevent weight regain. Conventional low‐calorie diets are low in energy and fat content, with up to 30% of total calories derived from fat intake, and they are high in complex carbohydrate and fiber content through increased intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruit (2). This dietary approach promotes a sustainable energy level that does not exceed energy expenditure, which is important for long‐term maintenance of weight loss.…”

Obesity and Occupational Therapy

“…Conversely, while long-term and appropriate weight loss has been shown to improve health conditions, short-term loss and rebounding with increased weight gain, inappropriate dieting methods, or extreme weight loss may have damaging effects. Typical methods used by consumers who wish to lose weight consist of adhering to a short-term calorie-restricted diet; engaging in a regular, not intense, or irregularly active exercise program; and/or a quick fix of fad diets or weight-loss drugs followed by a return to unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle (Andrus, 2011;Heshka et al, 2003: Lowe, Miller-Kovach, Frye, & Phelan, 1999Manson et al, 2004;Mokdad et al, 2001;Moloney, 2000;Smith & Fremouw, 1987;Willet, 2001). With millions of Americans of all ages strugglingand failing-to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle using current methods for weight management, it is clear that health care consumers need to implement successful approaches to attaining effective and sustainable changes in lifestyle that influence weight and, more important, produce related improvements in overall health.…”

“…On a societal level, obesity has been called the "last acceptable form of prejudice" (Chambliss, Finley, & Blair, 2004), one that often results in reduced education, housing, and employment opportunities (Puhl & Brownell, 2001); decreased access to and use of health care and wellness services (Wallis, 2004); exposure to stigmatization, discrimination, and bullying (IOM, 2012); and restricted social participation as a result of negative portrayals in popular media (Greenberg, Eastin, Hofschire, Lachlan, & Brownell, 2003;Moloney, 2000). Such negative consequences can have a devastating impact on individuals throughout their life, limiting their opportunities for or access to participation in their desired occupations.…”

The effects of different caloric restriction diets on anthropometric and cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese females

“…Lowenergy diet for 20-24 weeks, lead to reduce of 0.4-0.5 kg/week with the average weight loss of 8.5 kg. 15 There was no special physical activity prescribed during the study. Individuals met with our medical dietician at baseline, and after 4 and 8 weeks and later were followed monthly.…”