Rockville, MD – January 7, 2026 – Jacqueline M. Stephens, PhD, FTOS, President of The Obesity Society (TOS), the nation’s leading scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of obesity, released the following statement regarding the recently issued updated Dietary Guidelines and their implications for obesity care.

“The Obesity Society is concerned that the updated Dietary Guidelines do not reflect the modern scientific understanding of obesity as a chronic, complex disease, nor do they adequately address how eating behaviors and dietary patterns intersect with effective obesity prevention and treatment.

While nutrition is an important foundation of health, the guidelines place too much emphasis on individual behavior and calorie-based approaches, without sufficient recognition of the biological, metabolic, and genetic drivers of obesity. They also assume a level of nutrition and health literacy that many people do not have, stripping individual choice and behavior of necessary context. As a result, the guidelines risk reinforcing outdated assumptions that diet alone is sufficient to treat obesity and do not align with evidence-based clinical care.

The guidelines also take a one-size-fits-all approach, suggesting they apply universally and that individuals may choose whether to involve a health professional. This framing lacks the clinical nuance required for treating obesity as a chronic disease and fails to meaningfully integrate evidence-based medical care, including obesity medications, metabolic solutions, and bariatric surgery, which are standard and often necessary components of treatment for many patients.

TOS urges policymakers to ensure that federal dietary guidance aligns with contemporary obesity science, aims to reduce stigma, and supports individualized, comprehensive care. As the nation’s leading scientific organization focused on obesity, TOS stands ready to work with federal agencies to advance a more comprehensive version of this guidance that improves access, equity, and outcomes for people living with obesity.”

About The Obesity Society (TOS)

The Obesity Society (TOS) is the leading scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Through research, education, and evidence-based advocacy, TOS promotes a comprehensive and science-driven approach to addressing obesity as a serious, chronic, and treatable disease. The Society’s members include scientists, clinicians, policymakers, and other professionals working to improve health outcomes and reduce the global impact of obesity. Learn more at www.obesity.org.