Many people choose low-carbohydrate diets hoping to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a body process that can lead to heart disease and other health problems. Researchers looked at how two common diets compare. They compared low-carb diets to low-fat diets in a group of 2222 adults. The study tracked specific proteins in the blood that signal inflammation. These include interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and others like adiponectin and leptin. The participants followed their chosen diets for five and a half months. The results showed no significant difference between the two approaches. Low-carb diets did not outperform low-fat diets in changing these blood markers. This means both diets may have similar effects on these specific inflammation signals. The study did not report safety issues or side effects for either group. However, the researchers note that future trials should explore nutrient quality and how well people stick to the diet. They also suggest looking at the metabolic status of the participants. This review confirms that for these specific markers, the choice between low-carb and low-fat may not matter much.
Low-carb diets did not beat low-fat diets on inflammation markers in adults
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What this means for you:
Low-carb diets were not better than low-fat diets for inflammation markers in adults.