What characterizes outpatient nutrition therapy interventions for obesity? A survey of nutrition professionals in Germany, part 1
- 28.01.2026
- English Articles
- Janine Ehret
- Nanette Stroebele-Benschop
Peer reviewed / Manuscript (original) submitted: 23 December 2024; revision accepted: 9 April 2025
Part 1: Prior experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, monitoring tools and evaluation indicators
Introduction
Guideline-based obesity treatment is based on a multimodal approach that combines nutrition and exercise therapy, behavior change, and medical care [1]. In Germany, such multimodal treatment programs are usually implemented through group-based patient education [2]. According to a recent review by Morgan-Bathke et al. [3], participants in multimodal treatment programs achieved an average weight loss of –4.9% of their initial weight compared to the control groups (standard care or no intervention). In addition, a significant reduction in waist circumference was observed [3]. In a few cases, multimodal programs have already been integrated into routine care (through special or interdisciplinary care in accordance with §140a SGB V), ensuring full cost coverage and allowing data on effectiveness to be collected outside of clinical studies [4].
A mean weight reduction of –4.0% of the initial weight was achieved after 72 weeks in patients with obesity class II and III participating in the multimodal Leipzig Obesity Program. Additionally, significant improvements in quality of life and depressive symptoms, as well as significant reductions in waist circumference and cardiovascular risk factors, were observed [4]. In an evaluation of comparable treatment programs (such as DOCWeight® 2.1 and M.O.B.I.L.I.S.), slightly greater weight reductions (–5.4% to –6.4%) were reported after 12 months [5].
Abstract
A survey of outpatient nutrition professionals (NPs) was conducted to provide insights into the type of interdisciplinary collaboration, the assessment of treatment success and potential improvements in the care of patients with obesity. The NPs surveyed (n = 130) stated that patients usually attempt to lose weight on their own over many years, and NPs support is typically sought only when the disease has reached an advanced stage. In addition to nutrition therapy interventions (NTI), NPs recommend exercise and behavioral therapy programs. The most urgent improvements were identified as the reduction of structural and financial barriers, as well as the expansion of the scope of treatment and multimodal treatment programs. The average effectiveness of NTI in reducing initial weight was estimated at approximately 5% or higher. To verify the NPs estimates with more robust evidence, standardized monitoring tools and evaluation indicators should first be established.
