Changes in energy expenditure during a commercial weight-loss plan 0.1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Modelling changes in resting energy expenditure in overweight and obese subjects on a commercial very-low calorie diet
IRAS ID
299720
Contact name
Adam Collins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
68% of English adults are overweight or obese despite a rising prevalence in weight-loss attempts. This suggests that current weight-loss methods are over-simplistic. The clinically practiced 3500 kcal rule significantly overestimates weight-loss by disregarding dynamic changes in resting energy expenditure (REE) observed when the body is in a negative energy balance.
The overall objective of our study is to measure changes in REE observed in response to underfeeding. The proposed study is a dietary intervention trial conducted for eight weeks in collaboration with Lighterlife UK Ltd, a commercial weight management company offering very-low calorie total diet replacement programme designed to provide 600–800 kcal per day through specially formulated food packs e.g., soups, shakes, bars.
The primary outcome is change in REE at eight weeks. Key secondary outcomes are changes in weight, waist circumference, body composition, total body water, urinary ketone concentration, physical activity, mood, mindfulness, and sleep at eight weeks.
This is a multi-centre study between the University of Surrey and LighterLife UK Ltd. Study advertisement and recruitment will be carried out by LighterLife personnel via their social media, mailing list, newsletter etc.
Data will be collected by the research team at four study mornings carried out at the University of Surrey. Additionally, LighterLife personnel will record weight and deliver a behaviour-change programme at small group meetings.
Data obtained in this study will be used to refine a mathematical model of weight-loss, which accounts for underfeeding-induced changes in body composition and REE, providing a more accurate prediction of weight-loss. Reliance on simple inputs of weight and calorie intake makes our model applicable in a clinical environment. Additionally, using questionnaires, we aim to identify additional predictors of weight outcome beyond that associated with dietary compliance. This will enable us to identify individuals who may require additional input when starting a weight-loss programme.REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/EM/0028
Date of REC Opinion
16 Feb 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion