Obesity remains a pressing public health issue, linked to severe health risks such as reduced life expectancy and increased susceptibility to cardiovascular, metabolic, and certain cancers. Evidence suggests that a 5-10% reduction in body weight can alleviate obesity-related complications. Lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, have shown promise in managing weight and improving health outcomes.
A recent study explored the effectiveness of a multiphase, very-low-calorie ketogenic diet on metabolic health and oxidative stress in obese individuals. Conducted over eleven weeks with 40 participants, the study incorporated daily fiber, vitamin, and mineral supplements.
Key findings include significant improvements in body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. Participants also experienced reductions in fat mass and improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism. Notably, there was a reduction in abdominal obesity in 18% of participants.
The diet led to enhanced serum redox balance, evidenced by decreased levels of oxidative stress markers such as total oxidative status, lipofuscin, lipid hydroperoxides, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Changes in oxidative stress markers were significantly correlated with changes in BMI, fat mass, and insulin sensitivity.
Participants lost an average of 18 kilograms, with reductions in free fat mass, muscle mass, and total body water observed. The shift in energy metabolism towards increased lipid oxidation suggests potential for long-term weight maintenance and improved metabolic health.
Overall, the study highlights that a multiphase, very-low-calorie ketogenic diet can effectively reduce fat mass, enhance glucose and lipid metabolism, and improve oxidative stress markers, offering a promising approach to managing obesity and its related health issues.