[Uncertain whether weight-reducing diet lowers the risk of early death in hypertensive patients]

Abstract

The Cochrane review "Long-term effects of weight-reducing diets in hypertensive patients" fails to evaluate the primary outcomes of mortality and morbidity. It is uncertain whether weight loss in general reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and death as the relation between intentional weight loss and mortality is biased by reverse causation. Weight loss is a potent risk factor of weight regain and weight cycling is associated to early death. Recommendations on weight loss should be individualized and focused on promotion of a healthy and active lifestyle rather than counting kilos.