Effects of a 5:2 Diet on Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Obesity

Background: The optimal diet for treating obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is still not clarified. Could a five plus two diet, a form of intermittent energy restriction lead to good adherence, similar weight loss and reduction in CVD risk factors as a isocaloric continuous energy restrictions in obese subjects.

Methods: The study is a randomized controlled clinical trial in 120 men and women between 21 to 70 years with BMI (BMI 30-45 kg/m2), stable weight within ±3 kg last 3 months and 1 additional metabolic syndrome risk component.

Dietary intervention: Randomization will be to one of two diet groups. Participants in the intervention group will follow av 5:2 diet and participants in the control group will follow an isocaloric continuous energy restriction.

Primary research question: Compare the effect on weight reduction of intermittent energy restriction and a isocaloric continuous energy restriction in obese subjects? Secondary research questions Compare the effect of intermittent energy restriction and an isocaloric continuous energy restriction on cardiometabolic risk factors and tolerability and safety in obese subjects. The project consist of to randomized controlled clinical trials.

Inclusion criteria

• Men and women between 21 to 70 years.
• BMI (BMI 30-45 kg/m2).
• stable weight within ±3 kg last 3 months.
• 1 additional metabolic syndrome risk component.

Exclusion criteria

• Diabetes if treated with insulin or incretin analogues.
• History of bariatric surgery.
• Use of antiobesity drugs or supplements.
• Eating disorder.
• Psychiatric illness that contributes to difficulties with study procedures.
• Alcohol or drug abuse.