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Atkins Diet on Weight Loss and Glucose Metabolism in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Goldstein, T., Kark, J.D., Berry, E.M., et al., "Influence of a Modified Atkins Diet on Weight Loss and Glucose Metabolism in Obese Type 2 Diabetic Patients,"  The Israel Medical Association Journal, 6, 2004, page 314.

The following information was written by Atkins professionals.

Fifty-two volunteers were placed on either the Atkins diet without caloric restriction (25g for the initial 6 weeks and up to 40 grams for another 6 weeks) or a standard calorie restricted (1500 calories for men, 1200 calories for women) ADA diet (45% carbohydrates, 35% fat, 20% protein) for 3 months to compare the effects on weight loss glucose metabolism, and markers of cardiovascular disease risk and kidney function in obese type 2 diabetics. Both groups lost weight and decreased A1c values. The average weight loss on Atkins was 10 pounds with a 1.3% drop in A1c vs. those who followed the ADA diet who lost an average of 8.8 pounds and lowered A1c by .9%. More participants were able to decrease medications while following the Atkins diet, 17 out of 26 as compared with 11 out of 26 in the ADA group. There was a significant decrease in triglycerides by those who followed Atkins that did not occur in the ADA group. Measures in kidney function, blood pressure and uric acid were unchanged. The authors concluded that there were no significant differences between the two dietary approaches for weight and blood sugar management but emphasized that results were slightly in favor of the Atkins diet. In addition, they noted there was no evidence of deleterious effects on heart or kidney function for those in either group. “Based on our results, some patients who are unable to adhere to the ADA diet might find the Atkins diet useful for a short period.”

The following information was written by Atkins professionals.

Obese individuals with type 2 diabetes were instructed to follow either a low carb diet or a calorie restricted diet for three months. Individuals adhering to Induction and OWL for 3 months tended to have a greater weight loss and a greater improvement in blood sugar control than individuals counseled to consume the calorie restricted diet. No harmful effects on kidney and heart function occurred after following either diet. The researchers suggested that Atkins appeared to be easier to adhere to in the short term, increasing compliance and producing maximal benefits for diabetics.