Energy-restricted Diet Research Articles

Exercise training modifies the bone and endocrine response to graded reductions in energy availability in skeletally mature female rodents.

Reductions in energy availability leading to weight loss can induce loss of bone and impact important endocrine regulators of bone integrity. We sought to elucidate whether endurance exercise (EX) can mitigate bone loss observed in sedentary (SED) skeletally mature rodents subjected to graded energy deficits. Female virgin rats (n=84, 5-mo-old; 12/group) were randomized to baseline controls and either sedentary (SED) or exercise (EX) conditions, and within each exercise status to adlib-fed (ADLIB), or moderate (MOD) or severe (SEV) energy restriction diets for 12 weeks. Rats assigned to EX groups performed treadmill running to increase weekly energy expenditure by 10%. MOD-ER-SED, SEV-ER-SED, MOD-ER-EX and SEV-ER-EX were fed modified AIN93M diets with 20%, 40% 10%, and 30% less energy content, respectively, with 100% of all other nutrients provided. Energy availability (EA) was effectively reduced by ~14% and ~30% in the MOD-ER and SEV-ER groups, respectively. MOD-ER for 12 weeks resulted in few negative impacts on bone and, except for serum leptin in MOD-ER-SED rats, no significant changes in endocrine factors. By contrast, SEV-ER in SED rats resulted in significantly lower total body and femoral neck bone mass, and reduced serum estradiol, IGF-1 and leptin. EX rats experiencing the same reduction in energy availability as SEV-ER-SED exhibited higher total body mass, lean mass, total BMC, and higher serum IGF-1 at the end of 12 weeks. Bone mechanical properties at 3 bone sites (mid-femur, distal femur, femoral neck) were minimally impacted by ER but positively affected by EX. These findings indicate that combining increased EX energy expenditure with smaller reductions in energy intake to achieve a targeted reduction in EA provides some protection against loss of bone mass and lean mass in skeletally mature female rats, likely due to better preservation of circulating IGF-1, and that bone mechanical integrity is not significantly degraded with either moderate or severe reduced EA.

An observational study comparing the effects of whey and vegan meal replacements containing PolyGlycopleX® over 12-weeks in healthy adults

PurposeBackground/Objectives: Protein-based meal replacements (MR) with viscous soluble fibre are known aids for weight loss. This study aims to compare the effects of new whey and vegan MR containing different amounts of PGX (PolyGlycopleX) on weight loss over 12 weeks, along with a calorie-restricted diet.Design/methodology/approachSubjects/Methods: Sixty-eight healthy adults of both sexes (53 women; 15 men; average age 47.1 years; BMI 31 ± 7.1 kg/m2 and weight 85.05 ± 23.3 kg) were recruited. Participants consumed a whey or vegan MR twice/d (5–10 g/day PGX) with a low-energy diet (1,200 kcal/day), over 12 weeks. Weight, height, waist and hip circumference were recorded (four time periods).FindingsResults: Forty-four participants completed the study. Results showed significant reductions in average body weight and at week 12, whey group was [−7.7 kg ± 0.9 (8.3%), p < 0.001] and vegan group was [−4.5 kg ± 0.8 (6.2%), p < 0.001)]. All participants (n = 44; BMI 27 to 33 kg/m2) achieved significant reductions in body measurements from baseline to week 12; p < 0.001. Conclusions: Supplementation of protein-based MR with PGX and a balanced, low-energy diet, appears to be an effective approach for short-term weight loss.Research limitations/implicationsAs the authors were evaluating if the MR as a whole (i.e. with PGX) caused weight loss from baseline over the 12 weeks, no comparators, i.e. just the MR without PGX, were used. Formulation of these new MRs resulted in a whey product with 5 g PGX and a vegan product with 2.5 g PGX. Only 2.5 g PGX could be formulated with the vegan protein due to taste and viscosity limitations. Study participants were not randomized and no control groups (e.g. no MR or MR without PGX but with energy restricted diet) were used. Furthermore, it is not clear whether the sort of protein alone or the combination with a higher amount of PGX (whey with 5 g PGX/serving vs vegan with 2.5 g PGX/serving) has contributed to these significant greater weight-loss effects. This was something the authors were testing, i.e. could only 2.5 g PGX/serving have an effect on weight loss for a vegan MR. These limitations would be somethings to evaluate in a subsequent randomized controlled study. Hence, the results of this study may serve as a good starting point for further sophisticated randomized controlled trials that can demonstrate causality – which the authors acknowledge as one of the fundamental limitations of an observational study design. Participants tracked their calories but adherence and compliance were self-assessed and they were encouraged to keep their exercise routine consistent throughout the study. Hence, these are further limitations. No control group was used in this study to observe the effect of the dietary intervention and/or physical activity on weight loss alone. However, a goal of the authors was to keep this study as close to a real-life situation as possible, where people would not be doing any of these measurements, to see if with minimal supervision or intervention, people can still lose weight and alter their body composition. Furthermore, differences in gender and the corresponding weight loss effects in response to MR-protein-based treatments could be evaluated in follow-up studies.Practical implicationsThis study indicates that the consumption of protein-based (animal, whey or plant, pea protein) MR incorporating the highly soluble viscous PGX is beneficial for weight loss when combined with a healthy-balanced, calorie-restricted diet. MRs at either 2.5 g or 5 g per serving (RealEasyTM with PGX) proved to be a highly effective as a short-term solution for weight loss. The observed results are encouraging, however, further long-term studies (i.e. randomized clinical trials RCT) are needed to confirm the clinical relevance. RCTs should focus on the individual effects of PGX and/or the different protein sources used in MRs, on weight loss and the maintenance of the reduced body weight, and should measure detailed blood parameters (lipid profiles, glucose etc.) as well as collect detailed exercise and food consumption diaries.Originality/valueTo the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study comparing a whey versus vegan, (as pea) protein-based MR that is supplemented with fibre PGX; thus, this work adds information to the already existing literature on fibre (such as PGX) and MRs regarding their combined weight loss effects. The purpose of this study was to observe if the novel protein-based (either whey or vegan versions) MR RealEasyTM with PGX at 2.5 or 5 g in addition to a calorie-restricted diet (total of 1,200 kcal/day) would aid in weight loss in individuals over a 12-weeks period. Adding increasing amounts of whey protein and soluble fibre can help reduce subsequent ad libitum energy intake which could help adherence to energy restricted diets, but whether similar effects are seen with vegan protein is unclear – this study does aim to address this.

Effect of diet-induced weight loss on iron status and its markers among young women with overweight/obesity and iron deficiency anemia: a randomized controlled trial.

Obesity and iron deficiency are prevalent health problems that affect billions of people all over the world. Obesity is postulated to relate to iron deficiency via reduced intestinal iron absorption due to increased serum hepcidin level, which is mediated by chronic inflammation. Weight loss in individuals with overweight or obesity and iron deficiency anemia is believed to be associated with an improvement in iron status however the evidence from clinical trials is scarce. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of diet-induced weight loss on iron status and its markers among young women with overweight/obesity and iron deficiency anemia. The study design was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with two parallel arms (weight loss intervention vs control). Study participants were recruited using the convenience sampling method through public advertisements posted and disseminated through social media. Interested and potential participants were asked to visit the Diet Clinic for eligibility screening. A total of 62 women were recruited and randomized into weight loss intervention and control group. The intervention duration was three months. The intervention group received individual consultation sessions with the dietitian and tailored energy-restricted diets. Physical activity levels, dietary intake, anthropometric measurements and clinical markers were measured at baseline and end of the trial. There was a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in body weight of the intervention group (-7.4 ± 2.7 kg) that was associated with significant improvements in iron status and its markers (p < 0.01). The intervention group experienced a significant increase in hemoglobin (0.5 ± 0.6 g/dL), serum ferritin (5.6 ± 5.8 ng/mL), and serum iron (13.0 ± 16.2 µg/dL), and a significant decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (-5.2 ± 5.6 mg/L), and serum hepcidin level (-1.9 ± 2.2 ng/mL) at the end of the trial. Our findings indicate that diet-induced weight loss among participants was associated with an improvement in iron status and its related clinical markers. [https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20221009001], identifier [TCTR20221009001].

Intermittent Energy Restriction Combined with a High-Protein/Low-Protein Diet: Effects on Body Weight, Satiety, and Inflammation: A Pilot Study

Intermittent energy restricted (IER) diets have become popular as a body weight management approach. In this pilot study, we investigated if an IER diet would reduce systemic inflammation and if maintaining an elevated protein level while on an IER diet would enhance satiety. Six healthy women, aged 33–55 years with a BMI of 27–33 kg/m2, were randomized to first adhere to either a low- or high-protein IER diet using whole foods for three weeks. They then returned to their regular diets for a week, after which they adhered to the second diet for three weeks. Each test diet consisted of three low-energy intake days followed by four isocaloric energy intake days. The diets differed only in protein content. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), glucose, satiety, body weight, and waist circumference were measured at the beginning and end of each dietary intervention. Most participants showed reductions in hs-CRP levels from baseline on both IER diets but reported greater satiety when adhering to the higher protein IER diet. Overall, the IER diets reduced body weight and appeared to decrease inflammation in these overweight women, and the higher protein version enhanced satiety, which may lead to greater long-term dietary adherence.

Comparative efficacy of synthetic and herbal emulsifiers in broiler chicken fed energy-restricted diet

The digestive system of young birds is very poor and inefficient in digestion and absorption of fat due to less lipase production and low rate of bile formation, which can be overcome by the use of exogenous emulsifier. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of exogenous herbal and synthetic emulsifiers on growth performance, nutrients utilization, haemato-biochemical profile, and carcass quality in broiler chickens fed energy restricted diet during a 35-days feeding trial. 180 one day-old Cobb400Y chicks were assigned into four treatment groups, each with three replicates. T0(control) received a basal diet without emulsifier, group T1 received a basal diet with 3% less metabolizable energy, group T2 received a basal diet with 3% less metabolizable energy + synthetic emulsifier @250 g/tonne of feed and group T3 received a basal diet with 3% less metabolizable energy + herbal emulsifier @ 250 g/tonne of feed. Supplementation of exogenous emulsifier enhanced growth performance and economics of broiler chicken. These was no significant effect of exogenous emulsifiers on dry matter, crude protein, calcium and phosphorus retention in broiler chickens, however, retention of ether extract improved significantly. Haematological parameters, carcass characteristics and overall acceptability of meat of broiler chicken fed diets supplemented with emulsifiers in energy restricted diets didn`t differ. Emulsifier supplementation didn’t change villi length and crypt depth. It was concluded that decrease in 3% metabolizable energy of broiler chicken diet depressed growth performance and economics of broiler chicken whereas, dietary supplementation of emulsifier @ 250 g/ tonne of energy restricted based broiler feed improved the growth performance, ether extract utilization, intestinal morphology and economics without affecting haemato-biochemical profile, and carcass quality of broiler chickens.

Nutrition and Exercise Interventions to Improve Body Composition for Persons with Overweight or Obesity Near Retirement Age: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

The retirement phase is an opportunity to integrate healthy (nutrition/exercise) habits into daily life. We conducted this systematic review to assess which nutrition and exercise interventions most effectively improve body composition (fat/muscle mass), body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) in persons with obesity/overweight near retirement age (ages 55-70 y). We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials, searching 4 databases from their inception up to July 12, 2022. The NMA was based on a random effects model, pooled mean differences, standardized mean differences, their 95% confidence intervals, and correlations with multi-arm studies. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also conducted. Ninety-two studies were included, 66 of which with 4957 participants could be used for the NMA. Identified interventions were clustered into 12 groups: no intervention, energy restriction (i.e., 500-1000 kcal), energy restriction plus high-protein intake (1.1-1.7 g/kg/body weight), intermittent fasting, mixed exercise (aerobic and resistance), resistance training, aerobic training, high protein plus resistance training, energy restriction plus high protein plus exercise, energy restriction plus resistance training, energy restriction plus aerobic training, and energy restriction plus mixed exercise. Intervention durations ranged from 8 wk to 6 mo. Body fat was reduced with energy restriction plus any exercise or plus high-protein intake. Energy restriction alone was less effective and tended to decrease muscle mass. Muscle mass was only significantly increased with mixed exercise. All other interventions including exercise effectively preserved muscle mass. A BMI and/or WC decrease was achieved with all interventions except aerobic training/resistance training alone or resistance training plus high protein. Overall, the most effective strategy for nearly all outcomes was combining energy restriction with resistance training or mixed exercise and high protein. Health care professionals involved in the management of persons with obesity need to be aware that an energy-restricted diet alone may contribute to sarcopenic obesity in persons near retirement age. This network meta-analysis is registered at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ as CRD42021276465.

Effect of Dietary Intervention, with or without Cointerventions, on Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of disease from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, with inflammatory cytokines and adipokines identified as drivers of disease progression. Poor dietary patterns are known to promote an inflammatory milieu, although the effects of specific diets remain largely unknown. This review aimed to gather and summarize new and existing evidence on the effect of dietary intervention on inflammatory markers in patients with NAFLD. The electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane were searched for clinical trials which investigated outcomes of inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. Eligible studies included adults >18 y with NAFLD, which compared a dietary intervention with an alternative diet or control (no intervention) group or were accompanied by supplementation or other lifestyle interventions. Outcomes for inflammatory markers were grouped and pooled for meta-analysis where heterogeneity was allowed. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Criteria. Overall, 44 studies with a total of 2579 participants were included. Meta-analyses indicated intervention with an isocaloric diet plus supplement was more effective in reducing C-reactive protein (CRP) [standard mean difference (SMD): 0.44; 95% CI: 0.20, 0.68; P = 0.0003] and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (SMD: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.02, 1.46; P = 0.03) than an isocaloric diet alone. No significant weighting was shown between a hypocaloric diet with or without supplementation for CRP (SMD: 0.30; 95% CI: -0.84, 1.44; P = 0.60) and TNF-α (SMD: 0.01; 95% CI: -0.43, 0.45; P = 0.97). In conclusion, hypocaloric and energy-restricted diets alone or with supplementation, and isocaloric diets with supplementation were shown to be most effective in improving the inflammatory profile of patients with NAFLD. To better determine the effectiveness of dietary intervention alone on a NAFLD population, further investigations of longer durations, with larger sample sizes are required.

Maternal nutrition and effects on offspring vascular function.

Maternal nutrition during pregnancy may have profound effects on the developing fetus and impact risk for cardiovascular disease later in life. Here, we provide a narrative review on the impact of maternal diet during pregnancy on offspring vascular function. We review studies reporting effects of maternal micronutrient (folic acid, iron) intakes, high-fat diets, dietary energy restriction, and low protein intake on offspring endothelial function. We discuss the differences in study design and outcomes and potential underlying mechanisms contributing to the vascular phenotypes observed in the offspring. We further highlight key gaps in the literature and identify targets for future investigations.

Protein vs. Energy Restriction Impact on Rat Testis' Function, Redox Status, and Histomorphometry.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of protein-restricted (PR) and energy restriction (ER) on male repro-ductive function. Eighteen weaning Wistar rats were divided into three groups, and were fed an experimental diet for five months. The first group, a control (C), received a diet containing 20% casein and 1.7×106 J/kg diet. The ER was given 50% less calories vs. C, while the PR group was given a low-protein diet (10% casein). The reproductive function was evaluated on serum and testis using anthropometrical, histological, hormonal, and oxidative parameters. The body weight was reduced by 37% and 40%, respectively, in the PR and ER groups vs. C. In the PR group, the testis relative weight was decreased, whereas that of the seminal vesicles was higher than that of C. The epididymis and prostate relative weights remained unchanged in the three experimental groups. Furthermore, serum testosterone concentrations were respectively 1.4- and 2.8-fold lower in the PR and ER groups vs. C, whereas no significant difference was found in luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels among the groups. Compared with the C group, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, carbonyl levels, glutathione, and glutathione reductase activity reduced significantly in PR, and specifically in ER rat's testis, whereas, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities increased. Furthermore, the testis and epididymis examination revealed histological alterations in the PR and ER groups. In conclusion, ER and PR diets could reduce the oxidant markers, even though they may alter the reproductive activity by probably altering testosterone production.

Beneficial effects of time and energy restriction diets on the development of experimental acute kidney injury in Rat: Bax/Bcl-2 and histopathological evaluation

People’s lifestyles and, especially, their eating habits affect their health and the functioning of the organs in their bodies, including the kidneys. One’s diet influences the cells’ responses to stressful conditions such as acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aims to determine the preconditioning effects of four different diets: energy restriction (ER) diet, time restriction (TR) eating, intermittent fasting (IF), and high-fat diet (HF) on histopathological indices of the kidney as well as the molecules involved in apoptosis during AKI. Adult male rats underwent ER, TR, IF, and HF diets for eight weeks. Then, AKI was induced, and renal function indices, histopathological indices, and molecules involved in apoptosis were measured. In animals with AKI, urinary albumin excretion, serum urea, creatinine and, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio increased in the kidney, while renal eGFR decreased. ER and TR diets improved renal parameters and prevented an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. The IF diet improved renal parameters but had no effect on the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. On the other hand, the HF diet worsened renal function and increased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Histopathological examination also showed improved kidney conditions in the ER and TR groups and more damage in the HF group. This study demonstrated that ER and TR diets have renoprotective effects on AKI and possibly cause the resistance of kidney cells to damage by reducing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and improving apoptotic conditions.

Weight-Control Behaviors and Dietary Intake in Chinese Adults: An Analysis of Three National Surveys (2002–2015)

Weight control through dietary management is becoming increasingly common worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the dietary intake and diet quality between Chinese adults with and without weight-control behaviors. Data were collected from the China National Nutrition Survey 2002, 2012, and 2015. Dietary intake was assessed using a combination of 24 h dietary recall of three consecutive days and a weighing method. Diet quality was calculated based on China healthy diet index (CHDI). A total of 167,355 subjects were included, of which 11,906 (8.0%) adults reported attempting to control weight within the past 12 months. Participants with weight control had lower daily total energy intake, as well as lower percentages of energy from carbohydrates, low-quality carbohydrates, and plant protein, but higher percentages of energy from protein, fat, high-quality carbohydrates, animal protein, saturated fatty acids, and monounsaturated fatty acids than those without weight control. Additionally, the CHDI score in the weight-control group was higher than those without (53.40 vs. 48.79, p < 0.001). Fewer than 40% of participants in both groups met the requirement for all specific food groups. Chinese adults who reported weight-control behaviors had an energy-restricted diet characterized by reduced carbohydrate intake and overall higher diet quality compared with those without dietary-control behaviors. However, both groups had significant room for improvement in meeting dietary recommendations.

Short-Term Moderate Energy Restriction Does Not Affect Indicators of Oxidative Stress and Genotoxicity in Humans

Restriction of energy intake (ER), without malnutrition of essential nutrients, has repeatedly been demonstrated to increase longevity in rodents. In the antioxidant theory of aging the lack of balance between the generation of free radicals and free radical scavenging was thought to be a main causal agent in the aging process. From this point of view the antiaging effect induced by ER might be due to the lower rate of free-radical production and related damage induced by a lower metabolic rate. The antiaging effects of ER might also occur in humans. This study explored the effects of a 10-week moderately energy-restricted diet (80% of habitual) in 24 non-obese middle-aged men (16 ER subjects, 8 controls) on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and indicators of the primary antioxidant defense system, oxidative stress and genotoxicity. RMR decreased significantly in both groups, even when adjustments were made for the change in body composition. The increase in blood vitamin C concentrations correlated with the increase in urinary 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (80HdG) excretion. The change in urinary 80HdG excretion also correlated with the change in RMR per kg fat-free mass. No differences between groups were found for changes in indicators of genotoxicity, erythrocyte catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity and in plasma vitamin E, A or β-carotene concentrations. We conclude that 10 weeks of moderate ER did not affect indicators of antioxidative capacity, oxidative stress and genotoxicity of humans. Since subjects were not in energy balance at the end of the study, no conclusions can be made with respect to long-term effects.

Differential Fatty Acid Accretion in Heart, Liver and Adipose Tissues of Rats Fed Beef Tallow, Fish Oil, Olive Oil and Safflower Oils at Three Levels of Energy Intake

To examine interactive effects of dietary fatty acid composition and energy restriction on tissue fatty acid accretion, mature rats consumed diets containing beef tallow, fish oil, olive oil or safflower oil with free access or at 85% or 68% of free access energy intakes. Restriction was accomplished by adjustment of dietary carbohydrate level. After 10 wk, animals were killed, and the fatty acid compositions of liver, heart and adipose tissues were examined. Compared with animals given free access to diets, body weight gains were reduced at wk 10 in fish oil- and olive oil-fed groups consuming 85% (P < 0.01) and in all groups consuming 68% (P < 0.005) of free access energy intake. Liver and heart weights were also lower (P < 0.05) in all groups restricted to 68% of free access energy intake. The type of dietary fat and the level of energy restriction influenced fatty acid composition in all three tissues at wk 10. In liver tissue, graded energy restriction increased (P < 0.02) proportions of stearic acid and decreased (P < 0.03) those of palmitic acid. In heart tissue, palmitic acid levels decreased (P < 0.01) with energy restriction. In adipose tissue, significant energy restriction-related changes in fatty acid composition varied with type of fat consumed. These results emphasize the importance of whole-body energy balance in addition to dietary fatty acid supply in utilization of dietary fatty acids for tissue deposition vs. oxidation.

Moderate Walking Enhances the Effects of an Energy-Restricted Diet on Fat Mass Loss and Serum Insulin in Overweight and Obese Adults in a 12-Week Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundIncreased physical activity may be advantageous for weight loss. ObjectiveWe investigated the effects of an energy-restricted diet with and without moderate walking on body weight, body composition, resting energy expenditure (REE), and endocrine and cardiometabolic risk variables in overweight and obese participants. MethodsA 12-wk, randomized, 2-arm, parallel, controlled, energy-restricted (500–800 kcal/d) dietary intervention study was conducted in 82 men and women [mean baseline characteristics: age, 39.4 y; weight, 99.3 kg; body mass index (in kg/m2), 31.9]. Participants were divided into 2 groups. One group received a hypoenergetic diet (DI) only (n = 44). The second group received the same DI and participated in a regular walking program of 2.5 h/wk (DI + walking; n = 38). ResultsAfter the 12-wk intervention, body weight was significantly decreased in the DI + walking group and the DI group (−8.8 compared with −7.0 kg, P = 0.064 for intergroup differences). The decrease in body weight was accompanied by a significant reduction in total fat mass, which was significantly more pronounced in the DI + walking group than in the DI group (−6.4 ± 3.1 compared with −4.8 ± 3.0 kg; P = 0.020). REE after 12 wk was not significantly different compared with the baseline REE. Diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, LDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol were similarly significantly improved by both interventions. In the DI + walking group, insulin and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index were also significantly reduced. Serum free triiodothyronine was significantly decreased and serum cortisol was significantly increased in both groups. ConclusionParticipation in a 12-wk weight-loss study resulted in significant reductions in body weight and fat mass and was associated with significant improvements in biomarkers for cardiovascular disease risk. Moderate weight loss was not accompanied by a reduction in REE. Additional moderate walking enhanced the effects of a DI on fat loss and serum insulin. This trial was registered at www.germanctr.de/ and http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/ as DRKS00006827.

Almond Consumption during Energy Restriction Lowers Truncal Fat and Blood Pressure in Compliant Overweight or Obese Adults

Background: The inclusion of almonds in an energy-restricted diet has been reported both to enhance or to have no effect on weight loss. Their effects specifically on visceral body fat stores during energy restriction have not been widely examined. In addition, almond consumption has been associated with reduced blood pressure (BP), but whether this is linked to or independent of changes in body composition has to our knowledge not been examined.Objective: We evaluated the effects of consuming almonds as part of an energy-restricted diet on body composition, specifically visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and BP, compared to a nut-free energy-restricted diet.Methods: A randomized controlled 12-wk clinical trial of 86 healthy adults [body mass index (in kg/m2): 25–40] was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 energy-restricted (500-kcal deficit/d) diets: an almond-enriched diet (AED) (15% energy from almonds) or a nut-free diet (NFD). A linear mixed-model analysis on primary outcomes such as body weight, body fat, VAT, and BP was performed on all participants [intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis] and compliant participants (complier analysis).Results: Body weight, truncal and total fat percentage, VAT, and systolic BP decreased after 12 wk of energy restriction in both the ITT and complier analyses (P < 0.05). The complier analysis (but not the ITT analysis) indicated a greater mean ± SEM reduction in truncal fat (AED: −1.21% ± 0.26%; NFD: −0.48% ± 0.24%; P = 0.025), total fat (AED: −1.79% ± 0.36%; NFD: −0.74% ± 0.33%; P = 0.035), and diastolic BP (AED: −2.71 ± 1.2 mm Hg; NFD: 0.815 ± 1.1 mm Hg; P = 0.029), and a greater tendency for VAT loss (AED: −8.19 ± 1.8 cm2; NFD: −3.99 ± 1.7 cm2; P = 0.09) over time in the AED group than the NFD group.Conclusions: Moderate almond consumption by compliant overweight and obese individuals during energy restriction results in greater proportional reductions of truncal and total body fat as well as diastolic BP and hence may help to reduce metabolic disease risk in obesity. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02360787.

The Effects of Intermittent Diet Breaks during 25% Energy Restriction on Body Composition and Resting Metabolic Rate in Resistance-Trained Females: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of intermittent versus continuous energy restriction on body composition, resting metabolic rate, and eating behaviors in resistance-trained females. Thirty-eight resistance-trained females (mean ± standard deviation age: 22.3 ± 4.2 years) were randomized to receive either six weeks of a continuous 25% reduction in energy intake (n = 18), or one week of energy balance after every two weeks of 25% energy restriction (eight weeks total; n = 20). Participants were instructed to ingest 1.8 g protein/kilogram bodyweight per day and completed three weekly supervised resistance training sessions throughout the intervention. There were no differences between groups for changes over time in body composition, resting metabolic rate, or seven of the eight measured eating behavior variables (p > 0.05). However, a significant group-by-time interaction for disinhibition (p < 0.01) from the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire was observed, with values (± standard error) in the continuous group increasing from 4.91 ± 0.73 to 6.17 ± 0.71, while values in the intermittent group decreased from 6.80 ± 0.68 to 6.05 ± 0.68. Thus, diet breaks do not appear to induce improvements in body composition or metabolic rate in comparison with continuous energy restriction over six weeks of dieting, but may be employed for those who desire a short-term break from an energy-restricted diet without fear of fat regain. While diet breaks may reduce the impact of prolonged energy restriction on measures of disinhibition, they also require a longer time period that may be less appealing for some individuals.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and adherence to Mediterranean diet in an adult population: the Mediterranean diet index as a pollution level index

BackgroundResearch related to sustainable diets is is highly relevant to provide better understanding of the impact of dietary intake on the health and the environment.AimTo assess the association between the adherence to an energy-restricted Mediterranean diet and the amount of CO2 emitted in an older adult population.Design and populationUsing a cross-sectional design, the association between the adherence to an energy-reduced Mediterranean Diet (erMedDiet) score and dietary CO2 emissions in 6646 participants was assessed.MethodsFood intake and adherence to the erMedDiet was assessed using validated food frequency questionnaire and 17-item Mediterranean questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics were documented. Environmental impact was calculated through greenhouse gas emissions estimations, specifically CO2 emissions of each participant diet per day, using a European database. Participants were distributed in quartiles according to their estimated CO2 emissions expressed in kg/day: Q1 (≤2.01 kg CO2), Q2 (2.02-2.34 kg CO2), Q3 (2.35-2.79 kg CO2) and Q4 (≥2.80 kg CO2).ResultsMore men than women induced higher dietary levels of CO2 emissions. Participants reporting higher consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole cereals, preferring white meat, and having less consumption of red meat were mostly emitting less kg of CO2 through diet. Participants with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet showed lower odds for dietary CO2 emissions: Q2 (OR 0.87; 95%CI: 0.76-1.00), Q3 (OR 0.69; 95%CI: 0.69-0.79) and Q4 (OR 0.48; 95%CI: 0.42-0.55) vs Q1 (reference).ConclusionsThe Mediterranean diet can be environmentally protective since the higher the adherence to the Mediterranean diet, the lower total dietary CO2 emissions. Mediterranean Diet index may be used as a pollution level index.

Postmenopausal women's experiences of weight maintenance following a very low energy diet.

Very low energy diets (VLEDs) effectively induce substantial weight loss in people with obesity, yet they are rarely used as a first line treatment. There is a belief that such diets do not teach the lifestyle behavior changes needed for long-term weight maintenance. However, little is known about the lived experiences of people who have lost weight on a VLED in the long term. This study aimed to explore the behaviors and experiences of postmenopausal women who had followed a 4-month VLED (using total meal replacement products [MRPs]), followed by a food-based, moderately energy-restricted diet for an additional 8months, as part of the TEMPO Diet Trial. Qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants at 12 or 24months (i.e., at 8 or 20months post diet completion). Transcribed interviews were analyzed thematically using an inductive approach. Undertaking a VLED was reported by participants to confer advantages in weight maintenance that previous weight loss attempts had not been able to do for them. Firstly, the rapid and significant weight loss, in conjunction with ease of use, was motivational and helped instill confidence in the participants. Secondly, the cessation of a normal diet during the VLED was reported by participants to break weight gain-inducing habits, allowing them to abandon unhelpful habits and to introduce in their place more appropriate attitudes toward weight maintenance. Lastly, the new identity, helpful habits and increased self-efficacy around weight loss supported participants during weight maintenance. Additionally, participants reported that ongoing occasional use of MRPs provided a useful and easy new strategy for countering weight regain and supporting their weight maintenance regimen. Among the participants in this qualitative study, most of whom had maintained a loss of over 10% of their baseline body weight at the time of interview, using a VLED in the context of a clinical weight loss trial conferred confidence, motivation and skills for weight maintenance. These findings indicate that VLEDs with clinical support could be successfully leveraged to set up behaviors that will support weight maintenance in the long term.

Dietary weight loss strategies for kidney stone patients

PurposeOverweight has been associated with an increased risk of incident and recurrent kidney stone disease. Weight reduction is the therapeutic consequence to decrease the risk of stone formation. This review examines the effectiveness of different weight loss strategies on weight reduction and cardiometabolic risk profile, with a particular focus on risk factors for urolithiasis.MethodsA selective literature search was performed using PubMed and Cochrane library.ResultsClinical evidence for the potential benefits of dietary weight loss strategies for kidney stone disease is limited. A conventional, energy-restricted diet may significantly induce weight loss and reduce urinary supersaturation of calcium oxalate in overweight individuals with or without a history of stone formation. The current data indicate that an energy-restricted diet with partial meal replacement may additionally decrease the relative supersaturation of uric acid and further improve the cardiometabolic risk profile, and, thus, may be a favourable option for overweight kidney stone patients. Studies on the Mediterranean and DASH diets on the association between weight loss and the risk of urinary stone formation are lacking.ConclusionAn energy-restricted diet with or without meal replacement could be a promising weight loss strategy for overweight kidney stone patients. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of different weight loss strategies on urinary risk factors and cardiometabolic risk profile in urolithiasis.

Goishi tea leaf powder affects lower body weight and visceral fat accumulation during energy restriction in obese rats.

Goishi tea is a unique Japanese post-fermented tea produced in Kochi prefecture. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the supplementation of energy-restricted diet with Goishi tea leaves affects body weight, visceral fat accumulation, and fecal lipids in diet-induced obese rats. 18 male Wistar rats were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Subsequently, the diet-induced obese rats were fed a low-energy diet containing 1% (G1 group) or 3% (G3 group) of Goishi tea leaf powder, or without any tea extracts (C group) for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, body weight and body fat ratio were significantly lower in the G3 group than in the C group. Plasma insulin levels were significantly higher in the C group than in the G1 and G3 groups, whereas plasma leptin levels were significantly lower in the G3 group than in the C group. In addition, the lipid absorption rate was significantly lower in the G3 group than in the C and G1 groups. In conclusion, the administration of Goishi tea leaves under dietary restrictions might contribute to body weight reduction and inhibition of lipid absorption, as a diet therapy to help prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome. J. Med. Invest. 70 : 60-65, February, 2023.