Research
Macro partitioning
The superiority of low-carbohydrate diets for weight loss and body fat percentage reduction is most pronounced in subgroups with longer follow-up (≥6 months), younger age (<60 years), and very low carbohydrate intake (<10% carbs).
To maximize weight loss benefits from a low-carb diet, aim for very low carbohydrate intake (<10% of calories) and maintain the diet for at least 6 months. This approach is particularly effective for individuals under 60 years of age.
GoodQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
In subgroup analysis... a significant BMI lowering LCD effect was supported by studies with ≥ 6 months follow-up... age less than 60 years... and very low carbohydrate diet... for weight, this effect was supported by all subgroups, except for overweight or obese individuals with comorbidities, individuals over the age of 60, and diets with more than 10% carbohydrates.
Why this rating
Subgroup analysis of a meta-analysis; still robust but less generalizable.
Source
Comparison of the Effect of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet with a Low-Fat Diet on Anthropometric Indices and Body Fat Percentage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Mina Darand et al. · Journal of Nutrition and Food Security · 2023
Meta-analysis · 63 studiesCited 3×
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