The Effect of a Very Low‐Carbohydrate Diet on Intermuscular Adipose Tissue and Muscle Function in Older Adults With Obesity

ABSTRACT Objective Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) is associated with impaired skeletal muscle (SM) quality and declining mobility in older adults with obesity. This secondary analysis examined the effects of a very low‐carbohydrate diet (VLCD) versus a low‐fat diet (LFD) on changes in IMAT, muscle strength, and physical function in older adults with obesity. Methods Adults (age ≥ 60 years) with obesity were randomized to a weight‐maintaining VLCD ( Results The VLCD group showed a significantly greater decrease in IMAT (−24.4% vs. −1.0%, p  r 2  = 0.95, p  r 2  = 0.88, p  r 2  = 0.75, p   Conclusions Dietary interventions that reduce IMAT, such as a VLCD, may help preserve physical function and muscle strength in older adults with obesity. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02760641