Core Concepts
Effective dietary therapies for obesity include the very low-calorie ketogenic diet, emphasizing individualized approaches and addressing weight bias.
Abstract
The European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) and the European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians (EFAD) published a position statement on evidence-based options for medical nutrition therapy of obesity. The document addresses the growing obesity epidemic in Europe, emphasizing the need for effective interventions. Key highlights include the effectiveness of dietary approaches like the Mediterranean diet, vegetarian diets, and the very low-calorie ketogenic diet. The importance of individualized therapy, addressing weight bias, and the limitations of using BMI as a sole measurement tool are also discussed.
Key Highlights:
- Position statement by EASO and EFAD on medical nutrition therapy for obesity
- Prevalence of obesity in the European Union and its economic impact
- Review of 56 clinical trials on dietary therapies for obesity
- Effectiveness of calorie restriction and dietary habits in weight loss
- Benefits of the very low-calorie ketogenic diet and other dietary approaches
- Importance of individualized therapy and trained dietitians in treatment
- Limitations of BMI as a measurement tool and the need for complementary parameters
- Addressing weight bias in the management of obesity
Stats
The prevalence of obesity in adults in the European Union is 23% (2021 data), with obesity and overweight together at 60%.
Obesity and its complications account for approximately 8% of annual national healthcare budgets.
The very low-calorie ketogenic diet is supported by the highest level of scientific evidence (level 1a).
Quotes
"This is the first document from a renowned scientific association that includes the very low-calorie ketogenic diet in the recommended treatment for obesity." - Enric Sánchez, MD
"If we only look at weight, we are showing a huge bias. In these interventions, what interests us is to focus the working point on the kilograms of fat, specifically on the loss of that fat, and on the maintenance of muscle mass." - Cristina Porca, PhD