RGL Diet a Good Alternative

Overweight and obese adults seeking an effective weight management plan should consider a reduced-glycemic-load (RGL) diet, according to a new study. Researchers conclude that an RGL diet is a “reasonable” alternative to a low-fat, portion-controlled eating plan.

Study participants in the RGL group were instructed to eat until satisfied while maintaining a low daily carbohydrate intake. The control group was instructed to reduce daily fat intake and decrease portion sizes. Participants in the RGL diet group at week 12 lost 4.9 kg (10.8 lbs) compared with the control group, which lost 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs). The two groups did not differ significantly at week 36 during the maintenance phase of the study, however. No evidence of adverse effects on cardiovascular disease risk markers was observed following the study.

Many people find it difficult to comply with traditional weight management plans, which emphasize dietary fat restrictions, replacing fats with carbohydrates, and limiting portion sizes, because the body's adaptive techniques during restricted energy periods tend to increase hunger levels and reduce energy expenditure, researchers suggest. More research is needed to clarify the mechanisms responsible for initial weight loss and fat associated with an RGL diet, evaluate the persistence of losses over longer treatment periods, and gain more insight into treatment strategies to improve long-term weight-loss maintenance, they add.▪