[Aspects of metabolic change in low-calorie ration nutrition]

The parameters of physical development and those of energy, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism were studied during intake of low-calorie diets (995 kcal) of the two types, mainly carbohydrate and protein ones. Energy deficiency in the examinees fluctuated from 1785 to 2285 kcal/day during a ten-day intake of low-calorie diet. Reduction in the body weight was noted in all the persons, amounting from 2,2 to 3.960 kg; the losses of the fat component constituted from 20 to 25% of the total body weight loss during intake of carbohydrate diet and from 35 to 65% in case of protein diet. It was shown that lipids played the most active role in energy supply of the organism. In case of carbohydrate diet, the fats started participation in energy metabolism by the 7th day. In both experiments energy supply of the organism was effected at the expense of fats. Although the body weight during intake of carbohydrate diet declined less as compared to protein diet, it is recommended that low-calorie carbohydrate diets (1000 kcal) may be applied in dietotherapy since the intensity of the metabolic processes is less pronounced in these cases.