Low-carb or balanced? It is one of the most argued questions in dieting. A 2022 Cochrane review pooled the randomised trials, so here is what it found.
What the review found
The Cochrane review included 61 randomised trials with 6,925 participants who followed either a low-carbohydrate or a balanced-carbohydrate weight-reducing diet. Most participants did not have type 2 diabetes. The longest diet phase was two years. The authors concluded there is probably little to no difference in weight reduction and in changes in cardiovascular risk factors up to two years, in people with or without type 2 diabetes.
What this means
- The best diet is largely the one you can stick to.
- If low-carb suits your preferences, it is a valid option. If you prefer a balanced diet, you are not at a disadvantage on average.
- The evidence covers up to two years. Longer-term results are less certain.
- People with diabetes or taking medicines for blood sugar or blood pressure should change diet only with medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is low-carb better for weight loss?
The Cochrane review found probably little to no difference in weight reduction versus balanced-carbohydrate diets up to two years.
Does low-carb improve heart risk factors more?
The review found probably little to no difference in changes in cardiovascular risk factors up to two years.
Does it matter if I have type 2 diabetes?
The review found similar results for people with and without type 2 diabetes, but medication may need adjusting, so ask your doctor.
References
- Naude CE et al. (2022). Low-carbohydrate versus balanced-carbohydrate diets for reducing weight and cardiovascular risk. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. PubMed 35088407
General information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before changing your diet or having any procedure. Last updated 28 October 2026.
