Two-year study shows Mediterranean diet and calorie counting yield similar weight loss results
A two-year study involving 360 people from North Carolina primary care practices compared a Mediterranean-style diet against a standard calorie-focused program.
Study participants and methods
Researchers randomly assigned 182 individuals to the Mediterranean group and 178 to the control group. The average age of participants was 55, and most had a BMI of 30 or greater. Many also suffered from chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Weight loss outcomes
Both groups lost a similar amount of weight over the 24-month period. Assessments took place at four, twelve, and twenty-four months to track progress. Experts note that calorie balance remains important for achieving weight loss.
Diet quality differences
The Mediterranean-style group saw greater improvements in overall diet quality than the control group. Participants on this diet were more likely to recommend the program. Choosing higher-quality foods provided additional benefits for overall health beyond weight loss.
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