Review shows lasting weight loss for very-low-energy diets

Review shows lasting weight loss for very-low-energy diets

(HealthDay)—Very-low-energy diets (VLEDs) seem to be beneficial for long-term weight loss, according to a review published online Jan. 18 in Obesity Reviews.

Noting that guidelines suggest that VLEDs should be used to treat obesity only when rapid weight loss is clinically indicated, Helen M. Parretti, M.D., from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, and colleagues reviewed the literature to examine weight change associated with use of VLEDs. Data were included from randomized trials where the included a VLED and the comparator was no intervention or an intervention that could be given in a general medical setting with overweight adults.

The researchers found that VLEDs combined with a behavioral program achieved −3.9 kg at one year compared with a behavioral program alone. At 24 months and 38 to 60 months, the differences were −1.4 kg and −1.3 kg, respectively. Premature discontinuation of treatment occurred in 19 and 20 percent of the VLED and comparator groups, respectively (relative risk, 0.96; 95 percent confidence interval, 0.56 to 1.66). There was one serious adverse event in the VLED group (hospitalization with cholecystitis) and none in the comparator group.

"Very-low-energy diets with behavioral programs achieve greater long-term weight loss than behavioral programs alone, appear tolerable, and lead to few adverse events, suggesting they could be more widely used than current guidelines suggest," the authors write.

Several authors disclosed financial ties to the industry.

More information: Abstract
Full Text (subscription or payment may be required)

Journal information: Obesity Reviews

Copyright © 2016 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Citation: Review shows lasting weight loss for very-low-energy diets (2016, January 22) retrieved 29 March 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-01-weight-loss-very-low-energy-diets.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Behavioral weight loss program assists breast cancer survivors

3 shares

Feedback to editors