Mixed
Intentional weight loss in healthy, overweight (non-obese) individuals is associated with a statistically significant increase in all-cause mortality risk compared to weight stability.
If you are overweight but otherwise healthy (no diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure), current evidence suggests you may actually increase your risk of early death by trying to lose weight. Instead of focusing on weight loss, prioritize maintaining your current weight, eating high-quality foods, and staying physically active. The goal should be health markers, not a lower number on the scale.
Intentional weight loss... appeared to be associated with slightly increased mortality for healthy individuals (RR 1.11 (95 % CI 1.00, 1.22); P = 0.05), and for those who were overweight but not obese (RR 1.09 (95 % CI 1.02, 1.17); P = 0.008).
Why this rating
Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies, but relies heavily on self-reported weight and intention, with potential residual confounding.
Source
A review and meta-analysis of the effect of weight loss on all-cause mortality risk
M. G. Harrington et al. · Nutrition Research Reviews · 2009
DOI 10.1017/s0954422409990035
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