In this OER section, another key component of comprehensive obesity care is described: the role of food and nutrition in supporting overall health, preventing and managing complications, and improving quality of life. While physical activity, rehabilitation, and behaviour change strategies remain central to physiotherapy practice, concurrent food and nutrition interventions are essential for good metabolic health and overall wellbeing. Individualised dietary support is an important part of obesity management, particularly for individuals experiencing obesity-related complications and/or complex relationships

with food and dieting.

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For physiotherapists, understanding the principles of food and nutrition therapy helps to facilitate patient-centred conversations about food and health, recognise when referral to a dietitian is appropriate, and support coordinated care within a multidisciplinary team. People living with obesity may have had complex or negative experiences with dieting or weight-focused approaches, making sensitive, respectful communication in this area essential. Through integrated care, healthcare professionals can better support individuals with obesity to improve their relationship with food, maintain muscle health and physical function, and achieve meaningful long-term health improvements.