Commercial weight loss diets meet nutrient requirements in free living adults over 8 weeks: A randomized controlled weight loss trial

Truby, H, Hiscutt R, Herriot AM, et al. Nutr J. 2008;7:25-37.

Objective

To determine the effect of 4 commercial weight loss programs (Slim-Fast^®, Weight Watchers Pure Points Program, Dr Atkins’ New Diet Revolution and Rosemary Conley’s "Eat Yourself Slim" Diet & Fitness Plan) on macronutrient composition and micronutrient adequacy over a 2 month period.

Methods

A total sample size of 293 adults, mean age 40.3 years and a mean BMI 31.7 (range 27-38) were enrolled in a multi-center randomized controlled trial. Participants were placed in one of four diets or control group. Participants completed a 7-day food and activity diary at baseline and after 2 months.

Results

Baseline data indicated that all diets were nutritionally adequate and none of the diets resulted in micronutrient insufficiency or an increase in absolute fat intake. The average weight losses over 2 months in kg were: Atkins 4.4, Weight Watchers 3.2, Slim-Fast 3.5, Rosemary Conley 3.3, and Control 1.8. There was an average decrease in total energy intake from 30-38% among the four commercial diets with only a 10% decrease in the control group.

Conclusion

Commercial weight loss diets, such as the four studied here can be effective and be nutritionally adequate, which can be an important fact to reassure health professionals and those working in the community/public health that are recommending these diets.

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