1. Introduction
FAI, weight loss, PCOS
POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME, POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS), OBESE, ENDOCRINE DISORDER
These authors contributed equally to this work.We performed an open-label, randomised controlled trial to compare the effects of a very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) vs. moderate energy deficit approach on body weight, body composition, free androgen index (FAI), and metabolic markers in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Forty eligible patients were randomly assigned to a VLCD (Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrine disorder, affecting 5–21% of reproductive-aged women [Many women with PCOS experience difficulties in maintaining healthy body weight. Indeed, previous research has shown up to 75% of women with PCOS are overweight/obese [Studies involving dietary energy restriction for weight loss in PCOS have mainly focused on moderate reductions in energy intake to induce a deficit of 500–1000 kcal/d with/without the use of anti-obesity/anti-diabetes medication [Thus, the present study aimed to compare the effects of a VLCD vs. a conventional energy deficit approach on body weight and body composition, androgen levels, and other hormonal and metabolic parameters in overweight/obese women with PCOS.