Efficacy of Popular Diets for Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance in Adults

Abstract

This review discusses popular diet methods that are advertised as effective options for people struggling to lose weight. Obesity is a prevalent issue in the United States, which increases a person's risk for other comorbidities, notably cardiovascular diseases. This review seeks to determine the most effective weight loss method by comparing Orlistat, meal replacement products, Medifast, and bariatric surgery. The studies selected included both male and female adults (18+ years old) classified as overweight or obese based on their body mass index (BMI). The results showed that each of the four methods caused weight loss, but not all sustained this weight loss. Bariatric surgery had the highest percentage weight loss for patients, which was often sustained for many years after the procedure due to the physiological manipulation of the digestive system. Though bariatric surgery had the most promising results, not everyone qualifies for the procedure based on their BMI and other comorbidities. Thus, a more feasible weight loss and maintenance plan is the Medifast program. This paid program includes pre-made meals and the option of one-on-one counseling to implement lifestyle changes that can be used long-term for sustained, healthy weight loss.