Weight Loss: Low Carbohydrate vs Low Fat

Weight Loss: Low Carbohydrate vs Low Fat

It is the New Year and the majority of resolutions are focused around self-improvement, specifically weight loss.  In fact according the University of Scranton the top resolution for 2012 was weight loss and the 5^th top resolution was staying fit and healthy.

What does this mean?  It means a lot of people want to shed some pounds, so what should you do to reach that goal weight, eat a low carb diet or a low fat diet?

A meta-analysis of trials produced some interesting results.  Low carb diets were more effective at inducing weight loss after 6 months but there is no difference after 12.  Blood pressure changes were the same in both groups and low fat diets decreased LDL cholesterol more favorably but low carb diets had a more positive impact on HDL and triglyceride levels.  Bottom line, both diets produced weight loss with varying degrees of other benefits.

What was consistent between all trials examined, an extremely high dropout rate of about 50% on average.  Half of all individuals across trials could not stick to these diets, meaning we don’t know if they had any changes to their weight much less their health.

So which diet should you do to lose that weight?  Neither, your goal should be to eat a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates and fat in appropriate proportions while meeting your calorie needs.  Your goal should be a lifestyle change that first promotes optimal health and second promotes the weight you desire.  Weight loss without lifestyle change will almost always result in a regaining of the weight, and that is definitely not desirable.

This isn’t always an easy change but you do not have to do it alone.  ICWA is here to help you on your journey by providing you an environment that promotes your goals.

Let’s all get healthy in 2013 and let’s keep that health for years to come!

Nordmann AJ, Nordmann A, Briel M, et al. Effects of Low-Carbohydrate vs Low-Fat Diets on Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Arch Intern Med. 2006;166(3):285-293. doi:10.1001/archinte.166.3.285.