Avoiding carbs for six months may cut risk of type 2 diabetes, research suggests

A new study suggests doctors might consider short-term strict low-carbohydrate diets for managing type 2 diabetes, as Jane Dalton explains.

A higher intake of carbohydrates is linked to type 2 diabetes (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Patients with type 2 diabetes who follow a strict low-carbohydrate diet for six months may have greater rates of remission than if they go on other recommended diets without adverse effects, researchers have found.

Dietitians say carbohydrates – which range from bread and potatoes to sweets and fruit juices – are an important part of a healthy balanced diet. 

But the new study published by The BMJ suggests doctors might consider short-term strict low-carbohydrate diets for managing type 2 diabetes.