Comparison of Popular Weight Loss Diets

Inclusion Criteria

   - Body mass index (BMI) between 27 and 40 kg/m2

   - Weight stable for last 2 months

   - Not actively on a weight loss plan

   - No plans to move from the area over the next 2 years

   - Willing to accept random assignment

Exclusion Criteria

   - Pregnant or breastfeeding

   - Within 6 months of giving birth or planning to become pregnant in the next 2 years

   - Diabetes (type 1 or 2) or history of gestational diabetes

   - Renal or liver disease, active neoplasms, or recent myocardial infarction

   - Hyper- or hypothyroidism

   - Lipid lowering medications or medications known to affect weight/energy expenditure

   - Excessive alcohol intake (self-reported, > 3 drinks/day)

   - Postmenopausal, including surgical menopause

   - Currently under psychiatric care or severely clinically depressed (> 17 on Beck
   Inventory)