Lifestyle Interventions to Reduce Obesity and Diabetes

The majority of US adults are overweight or obese, which is a pri­ mary risk factor for type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases. Recent advances in behavioral treatment of obesity have produced significant shortand longterm weight losses that reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This article reviews key compo­ nents of effective behavioral treatment interventions, including diet, exercise, and behavioral and psychosocial strat­ egies. The authors review newer treat­ ment modalities that may enhance dissemination (Internet, smartphone) and discuss applications to clinical practice. Practitioners face multiple barriers to effectively delivering lifestyle interventions in today’s health care set­ ting but, nonetheless, remain powerful motivators in helping patients initiate and maintain weight loss efforts that reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.