Moderate Carbohydrate, Moderate Protein Diet Reduces Heart Disease Risk in Obese Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Lasker Denise A, Walker Ellen M, Layman Donald K
Primary Institution: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Hypothesis
The PRO weight loss diet would result in greater fat mass loss and more favorable changes in post-prandial insulin response and features of dyslipidemia compared to an isocaloric CHO diet.
Conclusion
A weight loss diet with moderate carbohydrate and moderate protein results in more favorable changes in body composition, dyslipidemia, and post-prandial insulin response compared to a high carbohydrate, low protein diet.
Supporting Evidence
- PRO diet led to a greater reduction in fat mass compared to CHO diet.
- PRO diet resulted in significant reductions in triacylglycerol and increases in HDL-C.
- Post-prandial insulin responses were significantly improved in the PRO group.
Takeaway
Eating a diet with balanced carbs and protein can help people lose weight and improve their heart health better than a diet high in carbs and low in protein.
Methodology
This was a parallel-arm randomized 4-month weight loss trial where adults consumed energy-restricted diets differing in macronutrient composition.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported dietary compliance and free-living conditions.
Limitations
Groups were not matched on fasted insulin at baseline, and exercise was not a mandatory part of the weight loss regimen.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged 40 to 56 years, with a BMI of approximately 33.6 kg/m2.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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