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.

Policy Relevance and Dissemination

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Our findings will help policymakers understand whether small amounts of weight loss (0-5%) provide meaningful health benefits, particularly for individuals without pre-existing condictions. The findings will inform decisiosn about how weight management services define success, and whether lower weight loss thresholds should be recognised within clinical and policy frameworks. 

Findings will be shared with the Department of Health and Social Care via a policy briefing report and published in an academic journal. 

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.