Research Project Abstracts

Lower Carbohydrate Diet Effects in Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Principal Investigator: Joel S. Edman, DSc.
Grant Period: 2005-2006

Low carbohydrate diets are becoming increasingly popular for weight loss and blood sugar control, even though there is little evidence supporting their effectiveness, and there are concerns about health consequences and long-term compliance.  While studies are beginning to be published that examine very low carbohydrate diets for weight loss, there are few investigations of these diets in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).  The purpose of this pilot study is to examine the effects and feasibility of a self-selected lower carbohydrate diet in T2DM patients. 

Subjects will be enrolled in this 12-week study to collect data on the influence of this diet on blood sugar control and kidney function.  At baseline and at 12 weeks, subjects will have blood drawn to evaluate blood sugar control – measures will include hemoglobin A1c, and fasting blood glucose and insulin levels.  Urinary microalbumin and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-) will also be measured at these two time points to evaluate whether there is an impact of the higher dietary protein content on kidney function. Three-day food records will be analyzed at baseline and at 12 weeks to quantify macronutrient intake and assess compliance.  Subjects will be provided with detailed instructions describing the dietary guidelines, which will focus on limiting carbohydrate intake to 50-100 gms per day.

With the increasing prevalence of T2DM and obesity, it is essential to evaluate the range of therapeutic options that may be necessary for their prevention and treatment.  This pilot study and related future research will help to determine optimal dietary protein and carbohydrate levels, as well as the appropriate circumstances in which they may be recommended