Method for estimating rate of fat loss during treatment of obesity by calorie restriction.

Rates of weight and fat loss in sixteen female and nine male obese patients during calorie restriction (655-789 kcal/day) for up to 120 days were studied by a method for estimating daily changes in body composition. Fat mass is calculated by subtracting daily fluid (calculated from sodium and potassium balances) and protein mass changes from daily weight changes. After the natriuresis of the first 4 days, there was a slower rate of weight loss between days 5 and 28 due largely to a decreasing contribution from fluid and protein losses. No significant change in the rate of weight loss could be shown after the first 28 days. The rate of fat loss did not change significantly from day 5 onwards suggesting no significant change in total energy expenditure during the study period. After 68 days, 93.4% of the weight loss was fat.