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2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Systematic Reviews

Systematic Review Question

Are high-protein (>35%) hypocaloric diets safe and effective for long-term (>6 mo) weight loss and maintenance?

Conclusion Statement

A moderate amount of evidence demonstrates that intake of dietary patterns with less than 45% calories from carbohydrate or more than 35% calories from protein are not more effective than other diets for weight loss or weight maintenance, are difficult to maintain over the long term, and may be less safe.

2010 DGAC Grade: Moderate