Abstract Summary

Objective: This study investigates the effects of keto diet pills designed to promote ketosis on weight loss, body composition, and overall health markers in overweight individuals.

Context: The ketogenic diet has become a popular weight-loss strategy by emphasizing high-fat, low-carb consumption, leading the body to burn fat for fuel. Keto diet pills, which contain ingredients like BHB (beta-hydroxybutyrate) salts and MCT (medium-chain triglycerides) oil, are marketed as supplements that support ketosis without extreme dietary changes. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of keto diet pills in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.

Methods Used 

Approach: A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 80 overweight participants aged 30-50. Participants were assigned to either a keto diet pill group or a placebo group. Both groups were instructed to follow a moderate-calorie diet and engage in light physical activity during the study period.

Data Collection
Primary outcomes included:

• Weight loss, assessed by body weight and body fat percentage, was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans.
• Ketone levels, measured through blood ketone testing, to confirm the effectiveness of the supplement in promoting ketosis.
• Metabolic health was evaluated through blood tests for glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles at baseline and post-intervention.

Secondary outcomes included self-reported improvements in energy, hunger levels, and overall well-being.

Researchers' Summary of Findings

Impact on Health: Compared to the placebo group, the keto diet pill group showed a significant reduction in body weight (average loss of 6.5 kg) and body fat percentage (average decrease of 4%). Blood ketone levels in the supplement group increased by 1.5 mmol/L, indicating active ketosis. Metabolic markers showed improved insulin sensitivity (average increase of 20%) and fasting blood glucose levels (average reduction of 12%).

The placebo group showed modest weight loss (average loss of 2.1 kg) and no significant change in metabolic health markers. Participants in the keto diet pill group also reported reduced hunger levels and improved energy throughout the day, particularly during periods of fasting.

Health Implications: Keto diet pills may be an effective tool for promoting weight loss and supporting metabolic health, particularly in individuals struggling to achieve ketosis through diet alone. While the pills alone did not produce dramatic weight loss, they significantly enhanced the fat-burning process and improved key metabolic markers, such as insulin sensitivity. This suggests that keto diet pills could serve as a helpful supplement to a balanced ketogenic diet for weight management and metabolic health.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.105679