Low-carbohydrate diets and type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Despite the significant medical and technological advances, the management of Type 1 diabetes remains unsatisfactory. The most significant challenge herein is the difficulty in controlling post-prandial glycemia. The type and amount of carbohydrates consumed have a greater influence on the post-prandial hyperglycemia and glycemic variability than other dietary factors, which consequently generates interest in carbohydrate-modified diets for the management of Type 1 diabetes. Individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes prefer low-carbohydrate diet regimens in order to maintain glycemic control. Few studies have examined the effects of a low-carbohydrate diets on the course of glycemic control in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. Low-carbohydrate diets may reduce glycemic fluctuation, hemoglobin A1c levels, and insulin requirement in adults with Type 1 diabetes. The long-term effects of a low-carbohydrate diets are not well documented, although it is believed to alter the lipid profile and cause nutrient deficiencies and cardiac complications in the long term. In children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes, it may improve glucose levels in the short term, although it may lead to growth retardation, deficiency in the intake of vitamin, minerals, and fiber, increase in blood lipids, fatigue, anxiety, and social isolation. This review discusses the effects of low-carbohydrate diets on Type 1 diabetes.