Abstract

The prevalence of obesity has been increasing worldwide. Several dietary treatments have been suggested to control weight, and recent guidelines recommend individualizing the composition of macronutrients. Carbohydrates are the most important nutrients in meals, and carbohydrate restriction is a dietary strategy that promotes weight loss. A low-carbohydrate diet is effective for short-term weight loss and can help improve glycated hemoglobin, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and triglyceride levels; however, the long-term effects and safety of this diet remains doubtful. In the short term, there is a risk of gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux, and type 1 diabetes patients are at risk of severe hypoglycemia, while in the long term, it can lead to malnutrition and decreased exercise capacity. Thus, rather than limiting the intake of carbohydrates, it is important to limit the intake of refined grains, sugar, honey, syrup, and sweetened beverages while maintaining the planned carbohydrate intake rate and improving meal quality