Brown, R. C., Cox, C. M., & Goulding, A. (2000). High-carbohydrate versus high-fat diets: Effect on body composition in trained cyclists. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 32, 690-694.

This study examined the effects of a high-fat (50% fat, 37% CHO) versus a high-carbohydrate (15% fat, 69% CHO) diet on body fat, lean body mass, and bone mineral density in endurance-trained cyclists (N = 32) over three months.

Total and percent body fat, lean tissue mass, and body weight were similar within and between groups across the assessment period.

Implication. When energy requirements are high, increased fat intake is not likely to alter body composition.

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