A study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham has found that an eight-week, very low-carbohydrate diet significantly improves the health of older adults with obesity.
This research, published in Nutrition and Metabolism, suggests that such a diet can be beneficial in reducing the risk of diseases like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease in this demographic.
Obesity in older adults is a major concern, especially due to the increased risk of cardio-metabolic diseases. The location of fat in the body, such as in the abdominal cavity and skeletal muscle, is particularly important in disease risk.
The researchers aimed to see if a diet low in carbohydrates but high in fat could help reduce these harmful fat depots while preserving muscle mass, without the need for caloric restriction.
The study involved participants following a very low-carbohydrate diet (VLCD), which included consuming at least three eggs per day as a key component. The findings were remarkable:
Weight and Fat Loss: Despite not being required to reduce their caloric intake, participants on the VLCD lost more weight and total fat mass compared to those on a control diet.
Reduction in Abdominal and Muscle Fat: The most significant fat loss occurred in the abdominal cavity and skeletal muscles.
Improved Lipid Profile: There was a notable improvement in participants’ lipid profiles, indicating a lower risk of heart disease.
Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity: Participants showed improved insulin sensitivity, reflecting a reduced risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
The study underscores the benefits of a very low-carbohydrate diet for older adults, particularly those at high risk of obesity-related conditions.
This dietary approach has been studied in younger populations, but this research is one of the first to demonstrate its effectiveness in adults over 65.
This age group is at a heightened risk of various diseases and often needs interventions that improve health while preserving muscle mass to prevent functional decline with age.
For older adults struggling with obesity, this study highlights a promising dietary strategy that could improve overall health, reduce disease risk, and maintain physical function.
It also adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of low-carbohydrate diets in various age groups and health conditions.
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