30 Seconds SummaryDo low carb diets increase energy expenditure?
- Ebbeling et al. (2018) conducted a study involving 234 participants to investigate the metabolic effects of low versus high carbohydrate diets over a 20-week period.
- Participants on a low carbohydrate diet exhibited significantly higher total energy expenditure compared to those on a high carbohydrate diet.
- The study demonstrated that the lower the carbohydrate intake, the higher the energy expenditure, especially in individuals with greater insulin secretion after weight loss.
- Despite similar protein and energy intakes, energy expenditures varied substantially between groups, suggesting different metabolic effects.
- The study used real-life settings with controlled diet provisions to maintain accuracy and improve compliance.
- Various mechanisms were discussed for how a low carbohydrate diet might increase energy expenditure, including effects on thermogenesis, spontaneous physical activity, and nutrient partitioning.
- The study found minor, if any, differences in metabolic rate or physical activity that could explain the higher energy expenditure observed with lower carbohydrate intake.
- Overall, the study suggests that those with metabolic syndrome might benefit more from low carbohydrate diets, not necessarily due to increased metabolic rate but possibly due to better management of hunger and energy levels.
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