According to a study, so-called low-carb diets have no advantages over other calorie-reduced diets. In the observation period of up to two years, there were also little or no differences between the diets in terms of changes in the risk of heart disease, as reported by the independent scientific organization Cochrane in Freiburg. The experts analyzed a total of 61 global studies with almost 7,000 participants on the subject.
So-called low-carb diets typically limit grains and legumes, as well as other high-carb foods like dairy, most fruits, and certain vegetables. These foods are then replaced with foods high in fat and protein, such as meat, eggs, cheese, butter, creams, and oils. Some low-carb diets encourage eating at will, while others limit the amount of energy consumed. These diets are widely advertised and marketed.
Balanced diets, on the other hand, contain more balanced amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats and comply with current health authority recommendations for healthy eating. To lose weight, it is recommended to limit the amount of energy consumed, for example through smaller portions or lean meat instead of fat.
According to the Cochrane report, people who followed a low-carbohydrate diet for up to two years lost a similar amount of weight as those who followed a balanced, high-carbohydrate diet. Changes in risk factors for heart disease were also similar. This was true for people with and without type 2 diabetes.