An eight-week high complex carbohydrate, energy restricted dietary intervention is associated with weight loss and a reduction of inflammation markers

Background Sub-clinical systemic inflammation has been implicated in the pathophysiology of obesity. In addition to impacting body weight, dietary modification may modulate markers of inflammation. Methods Overweight/obese adults were recruited to an 8-week dietary intervention characterized by energy restriction and increased complex carbohydrate intake. Blood samples for inflammatory and metabolic markers as well as anthropometric measurements were taken before and following the intervention. Results The study included 72 overweight or obese participants (BMI 31.8±5.8 kg/m²). Significant reductions from baseline weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference were observed following dietary intervention. Levels of inflammatory markers hs-CRP, ESR, WBC, and ICAM decreased significantly from baseline following the 8-week intervention. Metabolic measures including serum triglycerides, total and low density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly declined from baseline. Insulin and HOMA-IR declined in the subgroup of hyperinsulinemic participants. Conclusion An energy-restricted diet rich in complex carbohydrates is associated with weight loss, reduction of inflammatory markers and improved metabolic profile.