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A randomised controlled trial of the 5:2 diet
Peter Hajek1, Dunja Przulj1, Francesca Pesola1
1Health and Lifestyle Research Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
Plos One
|November 17, 2021
Summary
The 5:2 diet and standard advice offer similar weight loss results for obesity management. While initial adherence to the 5:2 diet is high, adding group support boosts short-term effectiveness but diminishes over time.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Obesity Research
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- The 5:2 diet, a form of intermittent energy restriction, is a popular weight management strategy requiring further scientific evaluation.
- Standard brief advice (SBA) for diet and physical activity is a common weight management approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the weight management effects of the 5:2 diet instructions versus standard multicomponent advice.
- To determine if additional behavioral support improves 5:2 diet adherence and efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Three hundred adults with obesity were randomized into three groups: SBA, 5:2 self-help (5:2SH), and 5:2SH with group support (5:2G).
- Participants were followed for one year to assess weight loss, adherence, and changes in dietary intake and physical activity.
Main Results:
- Both 5:2SH and SBA yielded similar modest weight loss at six months and one year.
- Initial adherence to 5:2SH was high but declined significantly over time.
- The 5:2 diet did not negatively impact fat/fiber intake or physical activity compared to SBA.
Conclusions:
- Simple 5:2 diet advice and standard weight management advice produce comparable modest weight loss results.
- While initial group support for the 5:2 diet enhances adherence and effects, this benefit wanes over time.
- Health professionals can consider offering the 5:2 diet as a weight management option.
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