Macro partitioning
High carbohydrate intake (>60% of energy) is associated with higher all-cause mortality, whereas moderate intake (50-55% of energy) is associated with the lowest risk, forming a U-shaped relationship.
Aim for carbohydrates to make up about 50-55% of your daily energy intake. This moderate level is associated with the lowest risk of death in large global studies. Avoid diets that are either very high in carbs (>60%) or very low in carbs, as both extremes are linked to higher mortality. Focus on a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and unprocessed meats.
The authors conclude that the epidemiological association between carbohydrate intake and death is U-shaped, with the lowest risk occurring with a carbohydrate intake of 50–55% of energy, and with both lower and higher intakes being associated with higher risk of death
Why this rating
Based on large observational studies (PURE, ARIC) and meta-analysis, but authors explicitly note residual confounding cannot be excluded.
Source
Evolving evidence about diet and health
Andrew Mente et al. · The Lancet Public Health · 2018
DOI 10.1016/s2468-2667(18)30160-9
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