Moderate Carbohydrate Diet May be Better for Diabetics
December 3rd, 2007 | by David Spelts |A recent study has shown that a moderate level of carbohydrates may be better for controlling diabetes than conventional higher carbohydrate diets.
Diabetics eating a diet that partially restricted carbohydrates (about 45% calories from carbohydrates) achieved better glycemic control, had lower BMI’s and cholesterol, and were able to reduce diabetes medications compared to diabetics following a conventional, higher carbohydrate diet (about 55% calories from carbohydrates). HbA1c levels were also significantly improved.
The quality of the carbohydrate intake was not studied. Obviously a diet that contains 55% calories from carbohydrate might contain significant amounts of sugar. That level of carbohydrates is probably not too much if better food choices are made and an exercise program is being followed.
PMID: 17980451
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One Response to “Moderate Carbohydrate Diet May be Better for Diabetics”
By Dr. Debbie on Jan 24, 2008 | Reply
A carbohydrate intake of 45% of total calories is fine for diabetics but it should be stressed that most of the carbohydrates should be complex carbs – 100% whole wheat products, high fiber starch products (Dietary Fiber greater than 5 grams on a food label). The quantity of carbohydrates in the diet also is accounted for in fruit content, dairy products, and to a lesser extent vegetables. Whole fruits, green-leafy, cruciferous,and colorful vegetables, and low-fat dairy products are preferred. These 4 food groups all account for the carbohydrate content of a nutritious diet.