An update on low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets

Abstract

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. 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. 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.