Here’s exciting news about a major peer-reviewed study just published in the New England Journal of Medicine. This study documents results of a two-year project to determine the best weight-loss diet for most people. This was a relatively long-term trial involving 322 moderately obese people, 36 of whom were diabetic.

Researchers compared three diets — an Atkins-style low-carb diet, a Mediterranean diet, and a low-fat diet — in a highly-controlled environment.

Participants lost weight following all three diets. The low-carb diet produced the the best results for most people — both in terms of weight lost, and also in terms of cholesterol improvement. Hopefully this will put an end to at least some of the negative opinions held by detractors of low-carb regimens. The Mediterranean diet came in second overall, and the low-fat diet was third. For the 36 diabetic participants, the Mediterranean diet proved best overall when factors such as blood sugar and insulin levels are factored in.

This study may prove helpful if you are wondering what type of diet you should follow. I personally have had excellent results starting with a low-carb diet, and then gradually adding low-glycemic foods to my meals. Today my diet is best characterized as Mediterranean-style.

I have never been a big fan of low-fat diets. Many of my friends who followed low-fat diets achieved less than ideal results. However, low-fat diets can work, and depending on your circumstances may be worth considering. If you choose a low-fat diet, be aware that manufacturers often replace fat with sugar in their products. Choose your foods with care.

Bottom line: There is no "one size fits all" diet. You should investigate and try different things until you find what works best for you. I will be there to help you along the way!

For more details on this major study, see Shai, Iris, R.D., Ph.D., et al. "Weight Loss with a Low-Carbohydrate, Mediterranean, or Low-Fat Diet." The New England Journal of Medicine. July 17, 2008. Vol. 359; No. 3: pages 229-241.