An update on low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets.

Author: Noble CA, Kushner RF

Author affiliation: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Publication date & source: 2006.03, Curr Opin Gastroenterol., 22(2):153-9.

Publication type: Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The use of low-carbohydrate diets in weight loss is an area of great controversy. In recent years, a significant amount of research has been conducted to evaluate the efficacy of these diets. This review aims to discuss mechanisms of action for weight loss; to assess impact on metabolic parameters including insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular risk parameters and to evaluate the data regarding safety and effectiveness for weight loss. RECENT FINDINGS: Most studies demonstrate that subjects following low carbohydrate diets lose more weight over the first 3-6 months than subjects consuming control diets. This weight loss is not sustained, however, at 1 year. Carbohydrate controlled diets may be associated with increased insulin sensitivity and improved glycemic control. High carbohydrate, low fat diets appear to have a more favorable impact on total and LDL cholesterol, whereas low carbohydrate diets have been shown to significantly decrease triglyceride and increase HDL cholesterol levels in short-term studies. SUMMARY: Low carbohydrate diets may be effective in helping people to lose weight. More long-term studies need to be performed, however, to better evaluate efficacy, safety, and impact on metabolic profile.