Low carbohydrate diet and type 2 diabetes: an effective treatment strategy?

This study reviewed published data on the effectiveness of a low carbohydrate diet for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

They found that a low carbohydrate diet reduced blood glucose levels and improved disease management.

Blood glucose (sugar) management is essential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Medication is used to help control blood glucose, but diet also plays an important role.

Recent evidence suggests a low carbohydrate diet (LCD) is beneficial for blood glucose control. Evidence has shown that an LCD reduces blood glucose, as well as levels of tryglycerides and cholesterol (fats in the blood). These factors have an impact on cardiovascular (heart and circulatory system) health also. 

This study analyzed data from all clinical trials that investigated LCD in type 2 diabetes patients. 

This review included data from 9 studies with a total of 734 patients with type 2 diabetes. Patients were either on an LCD or control diet. The follow-up time ranged from 3 to 24 months. HbA1c levels (average blood glucose over 3 months), triglyceride and cholesterol levels were analyzed.

Average HbA1c levels were significantly reduced in patients on the LCD (-0.44) compared to control diet. Triglyceride levels were also reduced in patients on an LCD. High-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol, was increased. 

This study concluded that a low carbohydrate diet reduced blood glucose levels and improved disease management.

The quality of the data included in this review was low as some data was missing. 

If you have any concerns regarding diet and diabetes management then please discuss them with your physician.