This article is the second section of a 3-part clinical module on the management of obesity. As a the result of a greater understanding of the effect of obesity on disease states, the emphasis of obesity treatment has dramatically shifted from weight management alone, to a comprehensive program of lifestyle modification, for the purpose of decreasing disease risk and enhancing quality of life.
Lifestyle modification involves changes in dietary intake, physical activity as well as behavior.
Ideally, the appropriate treatment of obesity involves all of these components, in addition to the potential use of medications. The purpose of this module is to examine the basic principles of behavior modification and to review the dietary and exercise interventions in the treatment of obesity. This activity is intended for physicians and pharmacists. Discuss the role of lifestyle modification in weight loss and weight maintenance. Outline dietary and exercise interventions for the treatment of obesity.