The Data Behind Popular Diets for Weight Loss

While there is a strong physiologic rationale for either carbohydrate restriction or fat restriction to achieve a calorie deficit needed for weight loss, evidence from randomized control trials suggest that either type of diet is effective for weight loss. When directly comparing LFD to LCD, LCDs seem to be more effective in producing short-term weight loss, while differences in longer term weight loss may not be clinically significant. The popular Paleo and Ketogenic diets may produce a greater energy deficit when consumed ad libitum to promote weight loss in the short term, though adherence significantly decreases over time. Therefore, the level of adherence, rather than macronutrient content, is the driver of successful weight loss. Calorie-restricted diets for achieving weight loss can be individualized for patients to accommodate personal preferences in eating patterns and macronutrient composition to encourage greater long-term adherence.