Efficacy and safety of very low calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) in patients with overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

VLCKD was associated with a weight loss of -10.0 kg in studies with a ketogenic phase of up to four weeks.

• Weight loss of -15.6 kg was observed in studies with a ketogenic phase of at least four weeks.
• Reductions were noted in body mass index (-5.3 kg/m), waist circumference (-12.6 cm), and HbA1c (-0.7%).
• Total cholesterol decreased by -28 mg/dl, triglycerides by -30 mg/dl, and liver enzymes AST and ALT by -7 U/l and -8 U/l, respectively.
• Blood pressure was reduced, with systolic and diastolic pressures decreasing by -8 and -7 mmHg, respectively.
• No significant changes were found in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, serum creatinine, serum uric acid, or serum potassium.
• The prevalence of discontinuation from VLCKD was 7.5%, similar to that of low calorie diets.

AI simplified