Effects of a low-insulin-response, energy-restricted diet on weight loss and plasma insulin concentrations in hyperinsulinemic obese females

The effects of two low-energy diets on serum insulin concentrations and weight loss in obese hyperinsulinemic females were compared during a 12-wk period. The first diet (n = 15) was designed to evoke a low insulin response (ID), and the second (n = 15) was a conventionally balanced diet (ND). After a 12-wk washout period, seven and nine subjects who had been on the ID and ND, respectively, changed to the alternative diet for 12 wk. Variables studied were basal and 30- and 120-min concentrations of blood glucose, insulin, and C-peptide after an oral glucose load; body weight; and energy intake. Mean (±SD) weight was significantly reduced after ID and ND (9.35 ± 2.49 and 7.41 ± 4.23, respectively). The mean weight loss was more after ID. Fasting insulin concentrations decreased more after ID compared with ND (91.3 ± 61.8 vs 21.0 ± 71.5 pmol/L; P < 0.05). We conclude that ID significantly reduces serum insulin concentrations and weight in obese hyperinsulinemic females.