Effects of low glycemic index and fat restriction diet on weight control and cardiovascular factors: a cohort study based on populations in Southwest China

Abstract

Background: Evidence from trials about benefits and risks of low glycemic index diets to loss weight and modify cardiovascular risk factors is preliminary. It is unclear to health benefits of choosing a suitable food source and limiting fat. The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the effect of low glycemic index and fat restriction diet on weight control and cardiovascular risk factors of overweight/obesity individuals in Southwest China. Methods: Overweight/obese men (n=101) and women (n =153) were received low glycemic index with fat restriction diet intervention, dietary advice consistent with dietary portfolio principles between February and July in 2019. Specific dietary intervention lasted 3 months. Changes in weight, body composition, and blood chemistry profile were obtained. Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, the physical indicators were significantly different at baseline and after 3-momth intervention. All detected indexes were not significantly different between the male and female individuals. Compared with baseline before intervention, participants showed varying degrees of improvement in body mass index, BMI, waist circumference, percentage of body fat, visceral fat, cholesterol and triglycerides. Conclusions: For overweight/obesity individuals in Southwest China, regardless of the gender, low glycemic index and fat restriction diet might be helpful to control weight and cardiovascular risk.