Oxytocin, Weight Loss and Ketosis in Response to a Very-Low-Calorie Ketogenic Diet: An Exploratory Study.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: Obesity is a chronic relapsing disorder associated with many comorbidities. Some evidence suggests that oxytocin (OT) has an anorexigenic effect, but its levels are often increased in obesity. This study investigates the effects of weight loss induced by a very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) on oxytocin levels. Methods: A total of 47 subjects with overweight or obesity, 28 females (60%) and 19 males, with a mean age of 55.5 ± 7.3 years and mean BMI 35.9 ± 4.4 kg/m², underwent VLCKD for 45 days. We assessed anthropometric parameters, metabolic profile, body composition and OT levels at baseline (t0) and at the end of the diet (t1). Results: After weight loss, plasma OT levels significantly dropped. Baseline OT correlated with BMI, f

SUBMITTER: Gangitano E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12899579 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature