Benefits of Weight Loss
If being overweight increases the risk of mortality, then we would anticipate that intentional weight loss would reduce it. A definitive demonstration of this prediction is not available, but several studies suggest that intentional weight loss does reduce the risk. Weight loss maintained for 2 yr reduces blood pressure, improves abnormal lipid levels, and reduces the risk of diabetes . In the American Cancer Society study of women aged 40-64 yr who intentionally lost weight, there was a significant reduction in all cause mortality of 20-25%. Using the National Health Interview Survey with a 9-yr follow-up, intentional weight loss lowers mortality rate (Hazard Rate Ratio) by 24% .
Weight loss affects a number of risk factors. Blood pressure and triglyceride level are very responsive to weight loss, decreasing after a 5-10% weight loss. HDL cholesterol (commonly known as "good cholesterol") level increases with a similar weight-related change. Total cholesterol, on the other hand, does not show a sustained effect until weight loss exceeds 20%. For most comorbidities, however, a 10% weight loss is sufficient to see significant improvement in risk factors.
Recent studies buttress the idea that losing about 5% of body weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals. In studies from Finland and the United States, conversion rates from a status of impaired glucose tolerance to diabetes were reduced by 58% with weight loss.
Weight loss affects a number of risk factors. Blood pressure and triglyceride level are very responsive to weight loss, decreasing after a 5-10% weight loss. HDL cholesterol (commonly known as "good cholesterol") level increases with a similar weight-related change. Total cholesterol, on the other hand, does not show a sustained effect until weight loss exceeds 20%. For most comorbidities, however, a 10% weight loss is sufficient to see significant improvement in risk factors.
Recent studies buttress the idea that losing about 5% of body weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals. In studies from Finland and the United States, conversion rates from a status of impaired glucose tolerance to diabetes were reduced by 58% with weight loss.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism June 1, 2004 vol. 89 no. 6 2583-2589
Copyright © 2012 The Endocrine Society
Copyright © 2012 The Endocrine Society