The goal of this intervention study is to learn about how weight loss impacts molecular signaling of intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) in individuals with obesity. The main question it aims to answer is how inflammatory molecules secreted by IMAT promote muscle insulin resistance and inflammation, and how these same molecules are diminished after weight loss. Following screening visits involving body composition measures, blood testing, strength testing, and a thigh muscle biopsy, participants will go through a 12-week dietary intervention for weight loss. After 12 weeks, this will be followed by the same testing and biopsies that were completed before the intervention. Researchers will then compare outcomes of individuals who lost weight to individuals who did not lose weight.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Generally healthy men and women aged 18-70

• BMI between 30-40

• Less than 1 hour of exercise per week

• Women:

  1. may be pre or post menopausal

Exclusion Criteria:

• Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes

• Thyroid disease

• History of lung disease

• Active use of nicotine

• Severe plasma lipid disorders

• Taking hormone replacement drugs, blood thinners, or thiazoladinediones

• Women:

  1. Currently going through menopause or peri-menopause
  2. Pregnant or breastfeeding
  3. History of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome