Does Reduced Carbohydrate Intake Improve Diabetes Management?

New research conducted by the London Metropolitan University suggests that patients may be able to follow a reduced carb diet as an effective and safe strategy for managing their diabetes. The findings are based off a systematic review of previous intervention studies.

The researchers analyzed participants’ changes in glycated hemoglobin levels following a switch to a lower carbohydrate diet. They found that participants’ glycated hemoglobin levels dropped after reducing carb intake, with the greatest reduction of 2.2% seen in those consuming under 30 g per day.

Overall, participants following the diet observed significant weight loss and a decrease in psychological stress associated with diabetes management. Participants also noticed better moods between meals.

“Our findings suggest that a reduced carbohydrate diet can be an effective technique for managing diabetes and new guidelines that promote lower carbohydrate intakes for both general population, and those with diabetes, should seriously be considered,” Michelle McKenzie, lead author, said in a press release.

Although the current study’s results offer compelling evidence, the researchers concluded that more long-term research should be conducted to further validate the practice for clinical use.

Reference

Low carbohydrate diets should be considered for diabetes management [news release]. London Met’s website. http://www.londonmet.ac.uk/media/london-metropolitan-university/london-met-documents/professional-service-departments/marketing-admissions-and-uk-recruitment/pr-and-communications/press-release-pdfs/Low-carbohydrate-diet-F.pdf. Accessed Mar. 7, 2017.

McKenzie, MR and Illingworth, S. Should a low carbohydrate diet be recommended for diabetes management? Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. doi: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0029665117000192