Macro partitioning
A very low carbohydrate-low protein (VLCLP) diet is the most effective macronutrient ratio for weight loss compared to a moderate fat-low protein (MFLP) control diet, achieving a mean weight loss of 4.10 kg.
If your primary goal is weight loss, a diet very low in carbohydrates (≤30% of calories) and low in protein (≤30% of calories) appears more effective than high-protein low-carb diets. This approach outperforms standard moderate-fat diets. Ensure you are overweight or obese, as results in normal-weight individuals are not well-established.
The very low carbohydrate–low protein (VLCLP, MD −4.10 kg, 95% CrI −6.70 to −1.54)... dietary groups might lead to weight loss compared with the moderate fat–low protein (MFLP) dietary group.
Why this rating
High certainty evidence via CINeMA, though based on RCTs with some heterogeneity.
Source
Comparison with Dietary Groups of Various Macronutrient Ratios on Body Weight and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Adults: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Yiling Lou et al. · Nutrients · 2025
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