Obesity and related metabolic health disorders are increasingly prevalent global issues. In a recent study conducted at a specialized metabolic health clinic, researchers explored the impact of Therapeutic Carbohydrate Restriction (TCR) in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.

The study analyzed data from 202 overweight or obese participants (77% female, mean age 47.3), who received TCR as part of a behavioral modification program.

The participants’ lifestyle, body composition, and respiratory quotient (RQ), a key indicator of fat oxidation, were recorded across multiple visits.

The results were promising. TCR improved fat oxidation in 84% of participants within the first two weeks, with an average weight loss of 1.8 kg.

By the 12-week mark, 82% of participants maintained an increase in fat oxidation, averaging a weight loss of 3.9 kg.

Notably, 71% of the weight lost was from fat, with an average reduction of 4.9 cm in waist measurements.

As Kirsty Woods, MHS & ETSA, explains, “Therapeutic Carbohydrate Restriction (TCR) is a viable dietary approach and treatment option for promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health in those with excess weight and accompanying chronic disease in a clinical setting, particularly when paired with Indirect Calorimetry (IC).”

Woods goes on to emphasize that “tools once reserved for research can now transform lives in clinical settings, and metabolic health is no exception.”

This study highlights the potential of TCR, guided by IC, to effectively manage excess weight and related co-morbidities. These initial findings offer a hopeful outlook for those battling obesity and metabolic health issues.

For those interested in further details, the published paper can be accessed in the Journal of Metabolic Health.