Very-Low-Energy Ketogenic Therapy Modulates the Metabolic–Antioxidant Axis in Patients with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial

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Abstract
Background: Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D), yet the effects of dietary interventions on endogenous antioxidant defences remain poorly defined. This is a non-randomized study evaluates the effects of very-low-energy ketogenic therapy (VLEKT), compared with a Mediterranean diet (MedD) and a control group, on antioxidants, metabolic, and inflammatory markers. Materials and Methods: Thirty adults with obesity and T2D were assigned to VLEKT (n = 10), MedD (n = 10), or control (n = 10) for 90 days. Metabolic parameters, inflammatory cytokines, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were assessed. Longitudinal changes were analyzed using linear mixed models. Results: VLEKT exhibited significant reductions in body weight, fat mass, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR. SOD activity increased in the VLEKT group, whereas no significant changes were observed in MedD. Changes in SOD were inversely associated with changes in HOMA-IR. GPx showed a less consistent response pattern, while inflammatory markers did not differ between groups. Conclusions: VLEKT was associated with substantial metabolic improvement accompanied by a selective modulation of antioxidant enzyme activity. The increase in SOD activity and its association with HOMA-IR suggest a link between metabolic and redox adaptations in subjects with obesity and T2D.
Funding Information
  • University of Piemonte Orientale
  • Ministry of University and Research: Grant PRIN (2020NCKXBR_004)

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