The Effects of a 6-Month Adherence to a Very Low Carbohydrate Diet Program: A Clinical and Metabolic Evaluation

Background: Very low-carbohydrate diets (VLCDs) have emerged as an effective dietary strategy for weight loss and metabolic improvement; however, evidence regarding their medium-term safety and efficacy remains limited. Objective: This study evaluated the clinical and metabolic effects of a 6-month VLCD intervention in overweight and obese adults. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 60 participants (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) who adhered to a VLCD (≤50g of carbohydrates/day) over six months. Anthropometric, glycemic, and lipid parameters were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni-adjusted post-hoc tests. Results: Significant reductions were observed in body weight (−9.3 ± 1.8 kg), BMI, waist circumference, fasting glucose, HbA1c, and triglycerides (p < 0.001), alongside a significant increase in HDL cholesterol (p < 0.01). No significant changes were detected in LDL cholesterol or markers of kidney or liver function. Conclusion: Six-month adherence to a VLCD resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in weight, glycemic control, and lipid profiles without adverse renal or hepatic effects, suggesting its efficacy and safety as a short- to mid-term dietary intervention for metabolic improvement.