Does a low glycemic eating pattern enhance weight loss?

The Study
Several weight loss diets were compared in a randomized trial of 122 overweight men and women. One of the diets was a moderate carbohydrate, low glycemic index diet and another was a low fat diet. After six months, the subjects consuming the low glycemic index diet had a significantly greater reduction in BMI than the low fat group (-2.45 BMI units for low GI vs. -1.43 for low fat).  Measures of fasting insulin and insulin resistance were also significantly improved for the low GI group. The researchers believed that the increased weight loss with a low glycemic approach may be due to a beneficial impact on glucose and insulin levels and an increased satiety. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2014; 100:27-35

Take Home Message

This study provides further evidence that glycemic index is highly relevant for those looking to manage their weight. It also provides further evidence that low fat diets are not the most effective for weight loss or health promotion. In no way should any of this be a surprise to those that work with me or have read my books!