Future Directions
Based on the findings from this topical review, researchers may consider the following suggestions for future research.
Study Duration: Longitudinal randomized control trials investigating the impact of plant-based diets on weight loss and weight maintenance are needed.
Dietary Intake Measures: More studies using objective and highly controlled measures of intakes (i.e., biochemical analyses, calorimetry, etc.) are needed.
Prospective Studies: Longer-lasting (>6 months) prospective studies are needed to gain a clearer understanding of the efficacy of plant-based diets for weight loss and maintenance.
Long-Term Adherence: Studies lasting >6 months should be conducted to investigate the effects of long-term adherence on obesity risk and incidence.
Diverse Populations: Racial, ethnic, age, and gender differences in obesity risk and incidence should be explored in western and non-western populations.
Nutrigenomics and Metabolomics: Genetic and metabolic phenotypic interactions should also be explored to elucidate associations between plant-based diets and obesity, weight loss, and weight maintenance.