Background: The prevalence of individuals who are obese or overweight is an increasing global epidemic that is associated with a multitude of adverse health conditions. Multiple strategies are available to promote weight loss in these populations, including the use of caloric restriction and/or liquid diets. We determined the impact of a low-calorie, nutrient-dense, primarily liquid diet on body weight and associated measures of metabolic health in overweight and obese men and women. Methods: Twenty-six men and women (age: 42.6 ± 10.8) completed a seven-day intervention using the USANA Active Nutrition Jumpstart program, which consisted of consuming three meal replacement shakes and three to four servings of fruits and vegetables, along with a probiotic, three metabolism supplements, and two vitamin packs each day. Pre-post measurements included body composition—determined (via DXA), fasting levels of lipids and glucose in heparinized whole blood, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, heart rate, and blood pressure. Subjective mood and hunger were also assessed. Results: The dietary program was well-tolerated, and the intervention resulted in a mean weight loss of approximately 4.5 pounds. Clinically relevant reductions were noted in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol (total and LDL), and glucose. In addition, there were favorable changes in self-esteem, energy, motivation, and physical appearance. Conclusion: A one-week period of adherence to the Active Nutrition Jumpstart program positively impacted subjective feelings, while resulting in significant weight loss and other health benefits that may have clinical relevance. Longer-term interventions are needed to sustain these initial results.
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