Well
according to this new RCT it is - in it they found that patients randomly assigned to 4 months of severe energy restriction (65-75% restriction of energy by way of total meal replacement/all liquid diet) followed by 8 months of moderate energy restriction (25-35%), at 12 months, lost significantly more weight than those assigned from the get go to the same degree of moderate energy restriction.
Hurrah?
So first off it's not remotely surprising that putting two groups on the exact same diet (25-35% energy restriction) but starting one group off with 4 months of extreme energy restriction sees those who had the extreme jump start lose more in total.
Secondly, it would appear that the extreme folks have a weight gain trajectory that may well erase the differences over time.
And thirdly, this got me thinking. Behavioural weight loss programs, because they don't involve products (unless medications are being tested, and here they were not), have outcomes that are likely significantly dependent on both material, and perhaps more importantly, on the service providers. Consequently I do wonder about the ability of any of these sorts of studies to be applicable to other offices or programs. Meaning here at least, it would appear the extreme folks did better, and the moderate folks dropped out more often (perhaps consequent to slower than desired initial losses), but would the same necessarily be true at a different site, with the same restrictions but with different service providers, collateral materials, attention and support?
I'd venture those things matter a great deal more than is generally ever mentioned in the medical literature.
And a Movember update! If you enjoy these posts (or even if you don't but you hate read them for something to rage about thereby adding some extra meaning or identity to your life) would love your tax deductible donation to my lipterpillar's growth (and remember, you can give anonymously too). And though I have a family history of prostate cancer (hi Dad!) I think it's important to note that beyond prostate cancer Movember funds multiple men's health initiatives including mental health, suicide, body image, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and testicular cancer. And while I will never charge a penny or host an advertisement on this site, I will, on an annual basis, ask for your donation to this cause. To donate, simply click here
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