Macro partitioning
Reducing overall carbohydrate intake, particularly to very low-carbohydrate levels (<26% of calories), demonstrates the most evidence for improving glycemia (A1C) and reducing medication needs in adults with type 2 diabetes, especially in the short term (3-6 months).
If you have type 2 diabetes and struggle with blood sugar control, try reducing your carbohydrate intake. Very low-carb diets (under 26% of calories) often lower A1C faster in the first few months. However, you must work with your doctor to adjust your diabetes medications to avoid low blood sugar. This approach is viable for many, but long-term results may be similar to other healthy diets.
Reducing overall carbohydrate intake for individuals with diabetes has demonstrated the most evidence for improving glycemia... In trials up to 6 months long, the low-carbohydrate eating pattern improved A1C more... Finally, in another meta-analysis comparing low-carbohydrate to high-carbohydrate eating patterns, the larger the carbohydrate restriction, the greater the reduction in A1C, though A1C was similar at durations of 1 year and longer for both eating patterns.
Why this rating
Based on multiple meta-analyses of RCTs, but long-term clinical event data is limited.
Source
Nutrition Therapy for Adults With Diabetes or Prediabetes: A Consensus Report
Alison B. Evert et al. · Diabetes Care · 2019
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