Diabetes & Stoffwechsel
Weight loss needs to be neither fast nor perfect. The decisive factors are realistic goals, a diet that fits into daily life, exercise, and a plan that works in the long term.
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✨ Key Information at a Glance
Even a moderate weight loss can be clinically relevant.
It is not only about the kilograms: waist circumference, blood pressure, and metabolic parameters are also part of it.
Nutrition and physical activity should be sustainable in the long term.
In the case of obesity, additional medical treatment may be beneficial.
Weight loss does not have to be rapid. The decisive factor is to improve health and to find changes that fit into one's own daily routine in the long term.
What really helps?
Nutrition
more vegetables and foods rich in dietary fibre
fewer highly processed foods
water instead of sugary drinks
conscious awareness of portion sizes
choosing a nutritional approach that is sustainable in the long run
Do not search for a perfect diet – rather look for a strategy that still works after several months.
Physical Activity
Regular walking, cycling, or another suitable activity is a good start. Strength training additionally helps to maintain musculature and function.
Those who have been minimally active so far can start small. Regularity is more important than perfection.
Do not only monitor the scales
For health development, the following can be important: weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, HbA1c/blood sugar, blood lipids, and liver values.
This makes it visible whether health is improving – even if the weight temporarily plateaus.
Medications?
For certain patients, medications can be part of a medical treatment plan. They do not replace nutrition, physical activity, and long-term care.
More on medical weight management →
Frequently asked questions
Which diet is the best?
A balanced nutritional approach that fits into daily life in the long term.
Do I have to exercise every day?
No. Regularity is more important. Even walking counts.
What to do if the weight increases again?
Do not start from scratch again. Assess the causes and adjust the previous plan.
When should I seek medical support?
Particularly in the case of concomitant diseases, severe abdominal fat, or repeatedly unsuccessful attempts to lose weight. Book an appointment →
🧭 What are the next steps?
1
Understand medical report
2
assess personal risk
3
establish individual goals
4
Monitor progress
5
if necessary, plan therapy together
👵 In advanced age
Treatment goals and therapies are individually tailored to your personal situation.
Concomitant diseases
Medications
Mobility
Memory / Cognition
Self-employment (Selbstständigkeit)
Therapeutic safety
Therefore, in older age, different treatment goals may be appropriate than for younger individuals.
Source: Austrian Diabetes Society — Geriatric Aspects of Diabetes Mellitus (2026 Update)
Children & Adolescents
For the diagnosis of diabetes, the same threshold values generally apply as for adults.
However, clarification, care, and therapy must be carried out in an age-appropriate and family-friendly manner.
In the case of abnormal values, a pediatric or pediatric-diabetological evaluation is recommended.
Source: Austrian Diabetes Association (Österreichische Diabetes Gesellschaft) — Diabetes Mellitus in Childhood and Adolescence (Update 2026)
bluthochdruck-verstehen
⚠️ When should I consult a General Practitioner?
To be discussed in detail in case of:
pronounced obesity or abdominal fat
high blood pressure
prediabetes or diabetes
elevated blood lipids or liver values
severe snoring or breathing pauses
repeated unsuccessful weight loss attempts
💡 Take-home Message
Start small – do not change everything at the same time. Focus on health rather than an ideal weight: blood pressure, waist circumference, and metabolism also count. Think long-term – the best strategy is the one that works permanently.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. med. Shahzada Amir, M.Sc., Ph.D.
Sources
Austrian Obesity Association (Österreichische Adipositas Gesellschaft)
Consensus Paper on Overweight and Obesity in Adults – Update 2025
European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO)
Framework for the diagnosis, staging and management of obesity in adults
World Health Organization (WHO)
Recommendations on physical activity
Deximed
Patient Information: Overweight
Austrian Health Portal (Österreichisches Gesundheitsportal)
Overweight and Obesity
Medical Advice
The information on this website is intended for general guidance only and does not replace an individual medical consultation, examination, or diagnosis. In the event of symptoms or health-related questions, please consult your physician.