Research has long since confirmed that low-carb diets tend to outperform low-fat diets when it comes to weight loss, but there was debate over their implications for heart disease, as many low-carb diets are high in fat. New research suggests low-carb is the way to go for both weight loss and heart health.

“This study shows if you are overweight and have cardiovascular disease risk factors and haven’t had success on other diets, certainly a low-carbohydrate diet is worth a try,” said lead researcher Lydia Bazzano.

Low-Carb Heart Health Study

For their study, Buzzano and colleagues recruited 148 obese individuals between the ages of 22 and 75, who, while overweight, did not have diabetes or heart disease. The group was split in two, with half following a low-carb diet for one year (<40 grams/day) and the other dining on a low-fat diet (<30% of daily calories from fat and <55% of daily energy from carbs). Both groups were advised not to change their level of physical activity, and they each received regular guidance about portion control, healthy eating and nutrition. About 80 percent of individuals stuck with their diet for the full year.

After analyzing the data, researchers found that individuals on the low-carb diet lost more weight than those on the low-fat diet – roughly eight pounds per person. But what they found most interesting was that neither group showed an increase in total cholesterol, and those in the low-carb diet exhibited lower levels of fat circulating in their blood, a general predictor of heart attack and heart disease.

“I thought that was a very striking finding,” said Buzzano, adding that those on the low-carb diets scored lower on baseline test for heart disease risk. She concluded by saying individuals should reach for healthy forms of protein like chicken, fish, nuts and beans over carbohydrate-dense or processed options.

Dr. Silverman comments

While this new study focuses on heart health, it’s of little surprise that cutting excess carbs from your diet is beneficial for your health. I mean, we’ve already found evidence that cutting carbs can lower your Alzheimer’s risk, it can lower your risk of developing diabetes, and can help you avoid becoming addicted to unhealthy foods.

Studies have already found that cutting carbs is great for your heart, but now we’re seeing it in relation to low-fat diets. It’s nice to see a comparison of the two. I hope to see similar studies in the future, and I hope readers keep their carb intakes in mind!

Related source: Reuters

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