Plant-based Protein-rich Weight Loss Intervention in 55+ Adults With Obesity

The objective of the 2EAT RCT is to investigate whether a shift towards more plant-based (≥60% with a minimum of 50%) protein intake can be achieved in an energy restricted diet for three and six months in older adults (55+) with obesity.

The 2EAT researchers developed a new dietary counseling plan for six months. This includes four individual consultations, five group meetings and three 24h-recalls. In these six months, participants receive dietary counseling focused on energy restriction (-500 kcal), higher protein intake (aim towards 1.2 g/kg/d, minimum of 0.8 g/kg/d). Participants are randomly allocated either to the more plant-based diet (≥60%) or the more animal-based diet (≥60%). At the start of the intervention, participants are provided with a workbook and recipe book.

Secondary objectives are to assess the effect after three and six months 2EAT dietary treatment on 1) weight loss and 2) skeletal muscle mass. Exploratory objectives are to assess the effect after three and six months 2EAT dietary treatment on 1) physical health outcomes (muscle mass and physical performance), 2) body composition, 3) metabolic blood parameters, 4) vitality and quality of life, 5) nutritional intake, 6) behavioral changes, 7) evaluate the process of the dietary treatment.