The relation between obesity and several
of its comorbidities, such as
type 2 diabetes and premature atherosclerosis,
seems to be mediated by risk
factors characterized by the metabolic
syndrome (1,2). The metabolic syndrome
is closely associated with abdominal obesity
(3–6). Weight loss and increased
physical activity are the cornerstones in
the treatment of the metabolic syndrome.
Treatment success defined as clinically
meaningful weight loss that can be maintained
for longer periods is, however, limited
(7–9).