[Diet and prevention of obesity]

Today obesity has already reached epidemic proportions in the industrialised nations and is seen as the main problem of this century. Because of the epidemiological situation and the risk of associated and resultant illnesses it is, in future, particularly important to strengthen the awareness of the problem amongst the general population, among experts in the fields of health and politics, as well as to develop public health strategies for health promotion, to reinforce target group oriented prevention measures in appropriate settings, and offer professional therapies in accordance with evidence-based guidelines. Within the framework of nutritional therapy, the general nutritional recommendations, (<30 En% fat, >55 En% carbohydrates, 10-15 En% protein) combined with a daily energy deficit of 300-1000 kcal are accepted for chronic disease prevention. In order to avoid long-term deficits in intake of macro- and micro-nutrients, a varied diet is recommended. The aim, not only of therapy, but also of prevention is a long-term change in dietary practices, which can only be achieved in combination with exercise and implementation of suitable behavioural methods.