Assessing the evidence for health benefits of low-moderate weight loss: A systematic review

This project will assess the evidence for health benefits of low-moderate weight loss: A systematic review

Background

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The standard goal for weight loss interventions is modest weight loss (>5% of baseline weight).

This is generally accepted as providing clinically meaningful benefits. However, some adults achieve modest weight loss, often less than 5% (low-moderate) and there is uncertainty about the health benefits of low-moderate weight loss, especially for people without pre-existing health conditions.

Methodology

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To systematically search the published literature to find the studies that have assessed the impact of losing a low-moderate amount of weight (defined as 0-5%) on the following health benefits: Cardiometabolic risk factors (e.g., blood pressure, lipids, HbA1c, fasting glucose), mental health, wellbeing, quality of life, physical health outcomes (e.g., mobility, liver function).

To appraise the quality of the identified studies, and then conduct meta-analyses per health outcome, if data and heterogeneity of the included studies allow.

Timing

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Autumn – 2023 

 

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The NIHR Policy Research Unit in Healthy Weight is part of the NIHR and hosted by UCL.