Lifestyle Modification for Obesity

Abstract

E xpert panels sponsored by both the World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health have recommended that obese adults (ie, body mass index 30 kg/m 2), as well as those who are overweight (body mass index of 25-29.9 kg/m 2) and have comorbid conditions , lose 10% of their initial weight. 1,2 A comprehensive program of lifestyle modification is considered the first option for achieving this goal. 2 Lifestyle modification, also referred to as behavioral weight control, includes 3 primary components: diet, exercise, and behavior therapy. 3 This narrative review examines weight losses achieved with this approach, as well as new developments with each of the 3 components.