Obesity is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in this country. Numerous approaches have been used to manage the disease without much success. The lifestyle management of obesity has been shown to be effi cacious for successful weight loss and maintenance. Diet, physical activity, and behavior modification are the key strategies used in lifestyle programs. They are combined to help obese individuals achieve a gradual reduction in weight over an extended time period. The components may be combined in a variety of ways to e fectively promote weight loss, allowing for flexibility and personal preference. Techniques and descriptions of these components are presented in this review. In addition, special populations that may benefit from this approach are reviewed. Optional treatments that may enhance the benefits of lifestyle intervention are also discussed. The authors hope to provide a resource for clinicians that will facilitate adoption of lifestyle approaches for managing the obese patient.
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