Guidance on Energy Intake Based on Resting Energy Expenditure and Physical Activity: Effective for Reducing Body Weight in Patients with Obesity.

OBJECTIVE

In treating obesity, energy intake control is essential to avoid exceeding energy expenditure. However, excessive restriction of energy intake often leads to resting energy expenditure (REE) reduction, increasing hunger and making weight loss difficult. This study aimed to investigate whether providing nutritional guidance that considers energy expenditure based on the regular evaluation of REE and physical activity could effectively reduce body weight (BW) in patients with obesity.

METHODS

A single-arm, prospective interventional study was conducted on 20 patients with obesity (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m) at the Nagoya University Hospital for 24 weeks. REE and physical activity were regularly assessed, and the recommended energy intake was adjusted based on the values. The primary outcome was the change in BW, and the secondary outcomes included changes in REE and hunger ratings, which were assessed using a visual analog scale.

RESULTS

Eighteen participants completed the study, demonstrating a significant reduction in BW after 24 weeks (-5.34 ± 6.76%, < 0.0001). No significant changes were observed in REE or hunger ratings. No adverse events were reported throughout the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Guidance on energy intake based on REE and physical activity was effective for reducing BW in patients with obesity without decreasing REE or increasing hunger. This approach may reduce the burden on patients with obesity while losing BW.