Low-carb weight loss diets have been used by countless people around the world.
A recent study published in the journal Current view on Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity suggests that a low-carb, high-protein diet can improve kidney function in some cases. Basically, this study affirms that protein (such as meat, fish and eggs) and fat will boost your metabolism and keep you fuller for longer, meaning you consume fewer calories.
One latest study shows that a low-carb diet (less than 130g per day) rich in protein can actually be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Even 46% of type 2 diabetics who have used a low-carb diet for 23 months have improved their condition, even without having to take special medication.
Specifically, Dr. David Unwin - a doctor from Merseyside (UK) used the records of 143 type 2 diabetics who followed a low-carb diet to clarify his idea. The patients (with an average age of 61) were diagnosed with diabetes for an average of 5 years and 3 months. They have normal kidney function or mild kidney disease and have been on a low-carb diet for an average of 30 months.
Research results show that this group lost an average of 9.5 kg, and 47% of them reduced diabetes, 2/3 improved kidney function. Dr. Unwin says this is contrary to what can be expected for older adults with type 2 diabetes, as the effects of this disease and our kidney function decline with age.
I think high blood sugar is the cause of the damage to kidney function that people with type 2 diabetes suffer, so reducing blood sugar seems like a reasonable step. However, it is still unclear whether this method is helpful for people with type 2 diabetes and moderate to severe kidney disease.
In addition, a low-carb diet is not without its negative aspects, as there is not enough data to confirm that the effects of this diet on kidney health are sustainable and long-term - Dr. Unwin shared
Also related to this study, Dr. Duane Mellor - a member of the British Nutrition Association agreed with the view that a low-carb diet rich in protein can benefit the kidneys. According to him, for people with healthy kidneys, protein is not a problem and for people with kidney disease, it is important not to limit protein too much because it can lead to malnutrition. In addition, better weight loss and sugar control will clearly help reduce the workload for the kidneys.
