Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it often coexists with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can cause liver problems.
Studies have shown that weight loss can help control both conditions and cutting down on carbohydrates can improve blood sugar levels.
In a recent study, researchers from the University of Southern Denmark wanted to find out if a low-carbohydrate, high-fat, calorie-unrestricted (LCHF) diet could help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and improve their glucose control.
They randomly assigned 165 people with type 2 diabetes to either a LCHF diet or a high-carbohydrate, low-fat (HCLF) diet for 6 months.
Both groups were asked to eat the same number of calories that were equal to their energy expenditure.
The participants in the low-carb group were asked to eat no more than 20% of their calories from carbohydrates, but they could have 50-60% of their calories from fat and 20-30% from protein.
Meanwhile, the people on the low-fat diet were asked to eat about half of their calories in carbohydrates and the rest equally divided between fats and proteins.
After six months, the researchers found that the people on the low-carb diet lost more weight than those on the low-fat diet.
The low-carb dieters also had a greater reduction in hemoglobin A1c, a blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over several months, indicating better glucose control.
Additionally, the low-carb group lost more body fat and reduced their waist circumference.
Both groups had higher levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease.
However, the study found that these changes were not sustained three months after the intervention, indicating that long-term dietary changes are necessary to maintain meaningful health benefits.
The researchers did not find any difference in the amount of liver fat or inflammation between the two groups, suggesting that a high-fat intake in the low-carb group did not affect the liver.
Overall, the study suggests that a low-carbohydrate, high-fat, calorie-unrestricted diet can help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and improve their glucose control.
However, it is important to maintain dietary changes over the long term to achieve sustained health benefits.
How to lease weight if you have diabetes
Losing weight can be challenging for anyone, but it can be particularly difficult for people with diabetes. However, there are several steps you can take to manage your diabetes and lose weight in a healthy way:
Talk to your healthcare provider: Before starting any weight loss program, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you create a personalized plan that works for you and your specific needs.
Focus on healthy eating: A healthy diet is crucial for people with diabetes who want to lose weight. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and whole grains can help you lose weight and manage your blood sugar levels.
Count your carbs: Carbohydrates can affect your blood sugar levels, so it is important to keep track of them. Your healthcare provider can help you determine how many carbohydrates you should be eating each day.
Watch your portion sizes: Eating too much food can lead to weight gain, so it is important to watch your portion sizes. Using a food scale or measuring cups can help you stay on track.
Get moving: Exercise can help you lose weight and improve your overall health. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
Monitor your blood sugar levels: Monitoring your blood sugar levels can help you understand how different foods and activities affect your diabetes. This information can help you make better choices and adjust your weight loss plan as needed.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about new way to achieve type 2 diabetes remission, and one avocado a day keeps diabetes at bay.
If you care about bone health, please read studies about vitamin K deficiency linked to hip fractures in old people, and these vitamins could help reduce bone fracture risk.
The study was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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