Objective: To evaluate the effects of 5 % weight loss, through diet only or diet plus exercise, on lipid profile, inflammation and endothelial function in obese individuals.
Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 48 obese individuals were randomized to either a diet only group (DI) or a diet and exercise group (DI + EXE). Treatment was maintained until 5 % of the initial body weight was lost. At baseline and upon completion, the following parameters were analyzed: total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation-FMD).
Results: Thirteen individuals dropped out before completing the weight loss intervention. The median time required for reduction of 5 % of initial body weight was 79.7 days for the DI group and 65.9 days for the DI + EXE group (P = 0.16). In both DI (n = 18) and DI + EXE (n = 17), total cholesterol (-15.8 ± 4.8 and -10.5 ± 4.9 mg/dL, respectively), triglycerides (-33.8 ± 10.0 and -39.4 ± 10.3 mg/dL, respectively) and hs-CRP (-1.35 ± 0.41 and -0.45 ± 0.43 mg/L, respectively) decreased significantly, and in a similar response (repeated measures ANOVA). Weight loss did not change significantly the fibrinogen and FMD in both groups.
Conclusion: A 5 % weight loss improves lipid profile and reduces inflammation in obese individuals. Endothelial function did not change significantly. Weight loss has a significant impact on these cardiovascular risk factors, and this is independent of physical training.