Diet programs

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Efficacy and Impact of Various Diet Programs

Very Low-Energy Diet Programs for Weight Loss in Children and Adolescents

Very low-energy diet (VLED) programs have shown significant efficacy in promoting weight loss among children and adolescents with obesity. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 studies revealed a mean weight loss of 10.1 kg over interventions lasting 3 to 20 weeks, with greater weight loss observed in adolescent-only studies and those involving formulated meal replacements and inpatient settings. However, the safety of these programs remains uncertain due to limited data on adverse events, highlighting the need for long-term follow-up and comprehensive monitoring in future studies.

Nutrition Intervention Programs in Early Education

Nutrition intervention programs in kindergarten and primary education have been effective in improving children's knowledge and behaviors regarding healthy habits, leading to a reduction in body mass index (BMI). These programs are crucial in addressing the rising rates of childhood obesity and overweight, with the potential to positively impact children's future health. The effectiveness of these programs can vary based on family income and geographical location, suggesting the need for tailored approaches in different settings.

Structured Dietary Programs and Cardiovascular Risk

Structured dietary programs, particularly those promoting Mediterranean and low-fat diets, have been shown to reduce all-cause mortality and non-fatal myocardial infarction in patients at increased cardiovascular risk. Mediterranean diets also likely reduce the risk of stroke. These findings are based on moderate certainty evidence from a systematic review and network meta-analysis of 40 trials involving 35,548 participants. Other named dietary programs generally showed little or no benefit compared to minimal intervention.

Total Diet Replacement Programs and Mental Well-Being

Total diet replacement (TDR) programs, which involve replacing all dietary requirements with nutritionally complete formula foods, have been found to improve various aspects of mental well-being, including depression, anxiety, stress, vitality, and social functioning. These improvements were observed both immediately after the diet and at follow-up, with no marked adverse effects reported. The findings suggest that TDR programs can be beneficial for mental health in addition to promoting weight loss.

Intuitive Eating and Psychological Health

Nondiet approaches, such as intuitive eating, focus on internal cues of hunger and fullness, body acceptance, and health-based behavior choices rather than weight outcomes. These programs have demonstrated positive results in improving eating habits, lifestyle, body image, and psychological health, including reductions in depression, anxiety, and negative affect. Participants also experienced sustained improvements in self-esteem and body satisfaction, making intuitive eating a promising approach for long-term health and well-being.

Very Low Carbohydrate Diet Programs

A 6-month very low carbohydrate diet program led to significant weight loss and improvements in metabolic parameters among overweight or obese individuals. Participants experienced a mean weight reduction of 10.3%, along with decreases in body fat percentage, serum cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, and an increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. These findings support the efficacy of very low carbohydrate diets in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.

Diet and Exercise Programs for Middle-Aged Women

Weight loss programs combining diet and exercise have shown the most significant improvements in health outcomes among middle-aged overweight women. A study comparing different programs found that those including both diet and exercise led to the greatest reductions in BMI, body fat, and improvements in VO2 max, body image, and psychological variables. These findings highlight the importance of a combined approach for optimal health benefits.

Healthy Food Prescription Programs

Healthy food prescription programs have been effective in increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and reducing BMI and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. However, the impact on other cardiometabolic parameters remains unclear due to considerable heterogeneity and methodological limitations in the studies. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to establish the efficacy of these programs.

Worksite Nutrition and Exercise Programs

Worksite nutrition and exercise programs have shown moderate success in promoting weight loss and improving diet and exercise behaviors among employees. A study found that participants maintained 65% of their weight loss one year after completing a 10-week program, although an internet-based maintenance program did not enhance these outcomes. These findings suggest that intensive, team-based programs can be effective, but additional support may be needed for sustained long-term benefits.

Conclusion

Various diet programs, from very low-energy diets to intuitive eating and structured dietary plans, have demonstrated efficacy in promoting weight loss, improving metabolic health, and enhancing mental well-being. The success of these programs often depends on the specific population and setting, highlighting the need for tailored approaches and further research to optimize their effectiveness and safety.