Obesity Treatments and Controversies
- Alexandra Kazaks, RD, CDE and
- Judith S. Stern, ScD, RD
Abstract
In Brief
The ideal model of obesity treatment is a comprehensive intervention including dietary, activity-related, behavioral, pharmacological, and/or surgical components that is geared toward individual needs, similar to the ideal treatment for diabetes. The main focus of any obesity intervention should be on health improvement instead of just body weight reduction. To resolve the controversies surrounding obesity, we must invest much more in research into the prevention of obesity and to ascertain those lifestyle or medical approaches that will make it easier for anyone to maintain a healthful energy balance.
Footnotes
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Alexandra Kazaks, RD, CDE, is a research associate in the Department of Nutrition, and Judith S. Stern, ScD, RD, is a distinguished professor in the Department of Nutrition and the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Clinical Nutrition, and Vascular Biology, at the University of California, Davis.
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Note of disclosure: Dr. Stern is a member of the medical advisory board for Weight Watchers International, a company that provides counseling and other services to overweight and obese clients.
- American Diabetes Association
