Short-Term Benefits of High Protein, High Fiber Meal Replacements for Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults

Abstract

Obesity is a critical global health issue that increases the risk for non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Dietary interventions like meal replacements are potential strategies for effective weight management. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of high protein, high fiber meal replacement products on body composition, and gastrointestinal health in overweight and obese adults. The sixty-one participants (BMI 23.0 - 29.9 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to either a control group (n = 30) consuming a regular diet or a meal replacement (MRP) group (n = 31) consuming meal replacement once daily. Anthropometric data, dietary intake, and gastrointestinal health markers were assessed at baseline, week 2, and week 4. The results showed significant reductions in body weight (-0.8 ± 1.3 kg or -1.1% ± 1.8%, p = 0.004) and body mass index (-0.3 ± 0.5 kg/m2 or -1.1% ± 1.9%, p = 0.024) in the MRP group compared to the control group. The MRP group maintained a high level of protein intake with corresponding reductions in carbohydrate and fat intake (p < 0.01). However, no significant changes were found in body fat percentage or visceral fat. The MRP group experienced a notable decline in basal metabolic rate (p = 0.022), indicating potential metabolic adaptation to caloric restriction. Additionally, improvements in gastrointestinal health, specifically a reduced need for bowel movement assistance (p = 0.024), were observed in the MRP group. In conclusion, meal replacements were effective in promoting short-term weight loss and improving dietary patterns, though metabolic adaptations and fat loss require further exploration in longer-term studies.