Original Research
A 12-week, whole-food carbohydrate-restricted feasibility study in overweight children
Submitted: 16 May 2018 | Published: 31 July 2018
About the author(s)
Caryn Zinn, Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New ZealandOle Schmiedel, Auckland District Health Board Diabetes Centre, New Zealand
Julia McPhee, Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Nigel Harris, Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Micalla Williden, Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Mark Wheldon, Department of Biostatistics, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Diane Stride, Dietitian, New Zealand
Grant Schofield, Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity is a global health concern. Conventional nutrition guidelines have come under scrutiny in helping to achieve long-term healthy weight. An alternative carbohydrate-restricted, higher fat approach has shown to be effective in adults, but research is limited in youth.
Aim: To assess the feasibility of a 12-week whole-food, carbohydrate-restricted diet on weight loss and metabolic health.
Setting: Overweight children aged 8–13 years.
Methods: In this single-arm study, 25 overweight children were provided with whole-food, carbohydrate-restricted dietary guidelines. Primary outcomes – dietary acceptability, adherence and affordability – were assessed qualitatively weekly (telephone) and post-intervention (focus groups). Secondary outcomes – Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, lipids and glycaemic control measures – were assessed at 0 and 12 weeks. Change scores were analysed using the t-statistic and interpreted using the statistical significance threshold, p < 0.05.
Results: Overall, dietary acceptability was mostly positive, and reports of affordability by parents were mixed. Attrition rates were high (48%); adherence was influenced, positively and negatively, by levels of support from friends and family. Completing children reduced BMI by 2.1 ± 1.5 kg.m2 (p < 0.05). Key blood parameter changes included a reduction in triglycerides (−0.17 ± 0.48 mmol/L; p = 0.242) and an increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (0.24 ± 0.19 mmol/L; p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Children achieved some weight loss and health outcome success using this dietary approach. For sustainable weight loss maintenance, full family and health professional support, particularly on a more intensive level at the start, may be required.
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Crossref Citations
1. Beyond Obesity and Overweight: the Clinical Assessment and Treatment of Excess Body Fat In Children
Mark Cucuzzella, James Bailes, Jenny Favret, Nina Paddu, Anna Beth Bradley
Current Obesity Reports vol: 13 issue: 2 first page: 286 year: 2024
doi: 10.1007/s13679-024-00564-1