Effect of Intermittent Versus Continuous Energy Restriction on Compensatory Mechanisms Activated During Weight Reduction
Obesity
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Obesity focused on measuring Weight loss, Intermittent energy restriction, Metabolic compensation, Diet therapy
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- adult (18-50 years old)
- obese healthy volunteers (30<BMI<40 kg/m2)
- weight stable on the last three months (<2kg), not currently dieting to lose weight and with an inactive lifestyle
Exclusion Criteria:
- history of endocrine/cardiovascular/pulmonary/kidney disease
- anaemia
- milk intolerance
- depression or other psychological disorders
- eating disorders
- drug or alcohol abuse within the last two years
- current medication known to affect appetite or induce weight loss
- a planned surgery during the study period
- participating in another research study
Sites / Locations
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Experimental
Intermittent energy restricted diet
Continuous energy restricted diet
The intermittent energy restricted group will undergo 3 nonconsecutive days of partial fasting per week. During the 3 days of partial fasting, participants will be asked to consume a very-low calorie diet (VLCD) providing 550kcal/day for women and 650kcal/day for men. The VLCD products provide 110kcal/pack and include a variety of shakes, smoothies and soups. For the feeding days a diet matching energy needs will be prescribed, using meal replacements (such as smoothies, soups and cereal bars) and conventional food. Drinking at least 2.5 liters of non-caloric liquids will be recommended.
The continuous energy restricted group will be prescribed a low calorie diet (LCD) with 33% energy restriction, using meal replacements (such as smoothies, soups and cereal bars) and conventional food. The diets' macronutrient composition of the two groups will be matched (50% carbohydrates, 20% protein and 30% fat).