The Impact of Low-Carb Diets on Health

Low-carb diets have been popular for several years, and their health benefits are increasingly recognized, with fewer doctors opposing them. However, some still argue that while low-carb diets may help with diabetes, they might harm other aspects of health.

Opposition to Low-Carb Diets

The most common criticism is that low-carb diets lead to high-fat consumption, which could increase the risk of atherosclerosis. Studies on mice have shown that when carbs make up 12% of their calorie intake, the risk of atherosclerosis increases. Additionally, Tohoku University’s research indicating that low-carb diets accelerate aging in mice has garnered attention. However, humans are omnivores, unlike the nearly herbivorous mice, and thus the effects can differ.

Research Findings

A 20-year study involving 82,802 female nurses found that a diet low in carbs and high in protein and fat does not correlate with increased heart disease risk. Another study over two years comparing low-carb, Mediterranean, and low-fat diets found all three equally effective in reducing carotid atherosclerosis.

Deductive Reasoning

While many conclusions are drawn from empirical studies, the individual variations and long-term control challenges make precise conclusions difficult. Deductive reasoning from biochemical facts offers another approach. Carbohydrate intake triggers insulin secretion, and high insulin levels increase oxidative stress in vascular endothelial cells, causing DNA damage and accelerating cellular aging and atherosclerosis. In diabetic mice, insulin administration improved hyperglycemia but increased myocardial ischemia and cell death, leading to heart failure. Excessive insulin signaling causes myocardial dysfunction and hypertrophy, suggesting that insulin is detrimental. Hence, low-carb diets may prevent heart failure by reducing insulin levels.

Insulin Management

Effective nutrients for managing insulin include:

• Alpha-lipoic acid

• Arginine

• Zinc

• Quercetin

• Banaba tea

Chromium, in particular, enhances insulin function. Supplementing diabetic patients with chromium from brewer's yeast improved HbA1C, triglycerides, and LDL levels. Brewer's yeast chromium, bound to niacin, is well-absorbed and stabilizes, enhancing insulin sensitivity and improving blood lipid profiles.