Low Carb Diet Improves Glycemic Control and Insulin Sensitivity in Type 2 Diabetics

Category: Conditions of the Circulatory System , Conditions of the Endocrine System

Not much information is known about the effect of a low carb, high protein and high fat diet on weight loss and blood sugar in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The low carb diet has gained popularity over the last few years as an effective tool for weight loss, and most foods allowed in the diet have a low glycemic index.

Many patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus could benefit from weight loss and better glycemic control. The results from a small study were published in the March issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. 10 participants were given standard dietary guidelines for Type 2 diabetes for seven days then put on a low carb diet for 14 days.

The study was aimed at determining the effects of a low carb diet on body weight, body water, energy intake and expenditure, glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and lipid levels.

Results of the study showed that a low carb diet caused a decrease in energy intake from 3111 kcal/day to 2164 kcal/day. Patients also experienced weight loss caused primarily by decreased caloric intake. The blood glucose levels also normalized, HbA1c decreased from 7.3% to 6.8%, and insulin sensitivity improved by 75%. Triglycerides and total cholesterol decreased by 35% and 10% respectively.

The authors concluded that a low carb diet had significant effects on weight loss and glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. However the study was not blinded, no control was used, and the duration was only 14 days. Follow-up studies with a greater number of participants, and control group and longer treatment duration are needed to support this preliminary evidence.

Posted by Kristopher Foster on March 29, 2014 11:00 AM