Prevention of Obesity among Adults: Evidence- and Consensus-Based Guideline

Background: The prevalence of obesity is rising globally. Evidence-informed guidance on preventing obesity is needed, but most existing obesity guidelines are focussed on treatment.

We developed an evidence- and consensus-based guideline on the prevention of obesity among adults. Following international best practice recommendations for guideline development, we systematically searched for relevant systematic reviews and conducted a structured consensus process involving 34 experts including 5 patient representatives. The guideline's target group is the adult population of Germany, but most recommendations are likely to be applicable internationally.

We developed 24 recommendations for the general public, health care professionals, and policy makers. The guideline recommends, among others, a healthy diet in line with existing food-based dietary guidelines, regular physical activity, as well as appropriate sleep and stress management. Smoking cessation is recommended even when associated with weight gain. Offering qualified advice and counselling on diet and physical activity to all individuals in primary care is suggested. Potential effects of medication on body weight should be considered in prescription decisions. Implementation of evidence-informed policies for promoting healthy food and physical activity environments is recommended.

Evidence-based approaches for preventing obesity on the individual and societal levels exist and should be implemented more widely.