Research
Macro partitioning
There is no universally superior diet (low-carb vs. low-fat) for long-term weight loss; both result in similar energy intake and weight loss outcomes when protein and calories are controlled.
Don't obsess over whether to cut carbs or fat. Both approaches work equally well for weight loss if you maintain a calorie deficit. Choose the dietary pattern that fits your lifestyle, preferences, and health markers (like blood sugar) best, as no single diet is superior for everyone.
StrongRefutesHIGH confidence
there were no clinically meaningful differences in average long-term weight loss... The large degree of individual weight loss variability... remains largely unexplained. Therefore, there does not appear to be a universal 'best diet' when it comes weight loss via manipulations of dietary carbohydrate versus fat.
Why this rating
Based on randomized controlled trials and metabolic ward studies cited (Hall et al. 2020, Gardner et al. 2018).
Source
Emerging insights in weight management and prevention: implications for practice and research
Éric Doucet et al. · Applied Physiology Nutrition and Metabolism · 2020
narrative_reviewCited 8×
Read the paper This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →