Y. Li, Y. Li, C. Wang, Z. Mao, W. Huo, W. Xing, J. Li, TY. Yang, et al. (2024). Association of low-carbohydrate diet scores and type 2 diabetes in Chinese rural adults: The Henan Rural Cohort Study. Endocrine, 84(2), 459-469. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12020-023-03602-5

PubMed 38324107

[Abstract]
PURPOSE: To investigate the association between low-carbohydrate diet scores (LCDs) and the risk of type 2 diabetes in rural China.

METHODS: A total of 38,100 adults were included in the Henan Rural Cohort Study. Macronutrient intake was assessed via a validated food-frequency questionnaire to create low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) scores. Multivariate logistic regression models and subgroup analysis were performed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

RESULTS: After multivariable adjustment, participants with a high total low-carbohydrate diet score have a high risk of T2D (extreme-quartile OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04-1.41; P = 0.007), whereas plant-based LCD score is not related to T2D risk. Among individuals with a BMI < 24 (extreme-quartile OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.01-1.47; P < 0.001) or high levels of physical activity (extreme-quartile OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.17-1.72; P < 0.001), the animal-based LCD score is positively correlated with the risk of T2D.

CONCLUSION: Among Chinese rural populations, high-fat-low carbohydrate diet is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. High intake of animal protein and fat also increases T2D risk in those who are overweight or have high physical activity.