[Principles of obesity treatment: What has changed in the updated S3 guideline?]

Abstract

A comprehensive update of the S3 guideline for the prevention and treatment of obesity was published in October 2024. In contrast to the former version, the literature search included not only data on weight reduction but also data on patient-reported outcomes and co-morbidity. The new recommendations for nutritional therapy, besides fat and carbohydrate reduction, now also include novel aspects like the Mediterranean diet and intermittent fasting. These will enable individualization and will avoid an unbalanced diet. Pharmacotherapy, especially incretin-based, is recommended in an adjuvant setting, especially since current clinical trials indicate beneficial effects on the heart, liver and kidney in addition to weight reduction. A novel chapter was included regarding eHealth strategies, since these are efficient as supportive measures for multidimensional treatment programs, including nutritional advice, behavioural coaching and exercise training. Finally, a novel aspect was incorporated: discrimination and stigmatization of subjects suffering from obesity. This is important not only for the general environment but also for the medical sector, including the handling of patients as well as the infrastructure of the medical institution (e.g. heavy-duty chairs). Hence, the novel guideline will guarantee high quality in the medical care of subjects suffering from obesity.