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. 2020 Oct 14;12(10):3134.
doi: 10.3390/nu12103134.

Impact of Strategies for Preventing Obesity and Risk Factors for Eating Disorders among Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Ana Carolina B Leme  1   2 , Jess Haines  2 , Lisa Tang  2 , Karin L L Dunker  3 , Sonia T Philippi  1 , Mauro Fisberg  4   5 , Gerson L Ferrari  6 , Regina M Fisberg  1
Affiliations

Impact of Strategies for Preventing Obesity and Risk Factors for Eating Disorders among Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Ana Carolina B Leme et al. Nutrients. .

Abstract

An effective behavior change program is the first line of prevention for youth obesity. However, effectiveness in prevention of adolescent obesity requires several approaches, with special attention paid to disordered eating behaviors and psychological support, among other environmental factors. The aim of this systematic review is to compare the impact of two types of obesity prevention programs, inclusive of behavior change components, on weight outcomes. "Energy-balance" studies are aimed at reducing calories from high-energy sources and increasing physical activity (PA) levels, while "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" focus on reducing disordered eating behaviors to promote a positive food and eating relationship. A systematic search of ProQuest, PubMed, PsycInfo, SciELO, and Web of Science identified 8825 articles. Thirty-five studies were included in the review, of which 20 regarded "energy-balance" and 15 "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders". "Energy-balance" studies were unable to support maintenance weight status, diet, and PA. "Shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" programs also did not result in significant differences in weight status over time. However, the majority of "shared risk factors for obesity and eating disorders" studies demonstrated reduced body dissatisfaction, dieting, and weight-control behaviors. Research is needed to examine how a shared risk factor approach can address both obesity and eating disorders.

Keywords: adolescents; eating disorders; obesity; prevention programs; systematic review.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Risk of bias for randomized controlled trials (n = 27) (a) and non-randomized controlled trials (b). Based on the revised Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tools for randomized controlled trials (ROB-2) and non-randomized controlled trials (ROBINS-1) (n = 6).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Flowchart showing the process of article selection.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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