Energy balance
Weight reduction of 5-10% improves metabolic risk factors, while reduction of ≥10-15% consistently improves sleep apnea, reduces new-onset type 2 diabetes, and reduces overall mortality.
Aim for a 5-10% weight loss to improve metabolic markers, and 10-15% or more to significantly impact sleep apnea and mortality. Focus on sustainable energy balance rather than specific diet dogmas, as weight loss itself is the primary driver of remission for conditions like T2DM.
weight reduction of ≥10–15 % contributing most consistently to improvement in sleep apnea, reduction in the new onset T2DM [31], reduction in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), reduction in cardiovascular disease risk, and reduction in overall mortality [1,32], as well as preventing the progression of T2DM [31].
Why this rating
Based on a joint expert review citing multiple references, but not a single primary RCT.
Source
Obesity management in primary care: A joint clinical perspective and expert review from the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) and the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) - 2025
N. J. Pennings et al. · Obesity Pillars · 2025
DOI 10.1016/j.obpill.2025.100172
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