ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which health benefit is likely to result from even small amounts of weight loss in obese clients?

1. prevention of cardiovascular disease

2. alleviation of functional impairment

3. prevention of type 2 diabetes

4. avoidance of musculoskeletal injury

The correct answer is: prevention of type 2 diabetes

Even small amounts of weight loss can have a significant impact on the prevention of type 2 diabetes, especially in obese individuals. Research indicates that losing as little as 5-10% of body weight can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the onset of type 2 diabetes. This weight loss can lead to favorable metabolic changes, including improved glucose regulation and lower blood sugar levels, which can help prevent the progression to diabetes. The other health benefits, while also important, may not show as strong a correlation with small amounts of weight loss as seen with diabetes prevention. For instance, while alleviation of functional impairment may be experienced, the relationship can be more complex based on individual activity levels and joint conditions. Similarly, the prevention of cardiovascular disease is a multifaceted issue that entails numerous lifestyle factors beyond weight alone. Finally, while avoiding musculoskeletal injury may occur as weight loss can decrease stress on joints, it is not as direct a consequence of small weight changes in the same way that preventing type 2 diabetes is. Thus, the focus on diabetes prevention through even modest weight loss is particularly well-supported by evidence in health coaching practices.