CompletedObservational

How a low-carbohydrate diet affects blood sugar and health in people living with type 2 diabetes: results from a real-life study

This study explores how a low-carbohydrate diet affects people in the UK living with type 2 diabetes. Researchers want to see if this type of diet can help manage blood sugar, weight, and overall health. Participants will take part in an 8-week online program that teaches them about low-carb eating. Over 6 months, their blood sugar (HbA1c), weight, and cholesterol will be measured to see how the diet helps. The study also talks to people about their experiences to understand if a low-carb diet is easy to stick to in everyday life. It's for adults with type 2 diabetes who are not on insulin and don't have certain other health issues.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

Public Health Collaboration

Enrolment target

100

Start

01 Feb 2025

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2025

Type 2 diabetes

What is this study about?

This study is looking into how a low-carbohydrate diet can help people in the UK who have type 2 diabetes. Many people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition through changes to their food and lifestyle. While common advice often suggests that carbohydrates make up a large part of our diet, some newer research hints that eating fewer carbs might be really good for controlling blood sugar.

The main idea behind this study is to see if reducing carbohydrates can help your body need less insulin and use the insulin it does make more effectively. This could lead to better blood sugar control, help with weight, and even reduce fat in the liver, which is often linked to type 2 diabetes. The researchers are studying people who are already taking part in an online health program called 'The Lighter Life' that promotes a low-carb way of eating.

The study aims to understand two main things: first, how well a low-carb diet actually works for blood sugar control and other health measures in real life; and second, how easy and acceptable it is for people to follow this diet day-to-day. By collecting information over several months and talking to participants, the team hopes to learn more about the everyday benefits and challenges of a low-carb approach for people with type 2 diabetes.

Key takeaways

The study explores how a low-carb diet affects type 2 diabetes management.
It involves an 8-week online program focused on low-carb eating.
Your blood sugar, weight, and cholesterol will be checked over 6 months.
It's for adults with type 2 diabetes not currently taking insulin.
The study also gathers feedback on how easy the diet is to follow.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Your diabetes diagnosis is usually confirmed by a blood test called HbA1c, and for this study, your HbA1c level needs to be above 47 mmol/mol.

There are some important things that would mean you couldn't take part. For example, if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant in the next year, this study isn't suitable for you. Also, if you are currently being treated for cancer or a serious illness, or if you have certain kidney, gallbladder, or pancreas problems, you wouldn't be able to join.

Similarly, if you have severe eye problems related to diabetes (called proliferative retinopathy), or if you are recovering from a recent operation, or have gout, you would not be able to participate. It's also important that you're not currently taking insulin to manage your diabetes.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have type 2 diabetes and an HbA1c above 47 mmol/mol?
Are you NOT pregnant or planning to be in the next year?
Are you NOT currently taking insulin for your diabetes?
Do you NOT have serious kidney, gallbladder, or pancreas problems?
Are you NOT currently being treated for cancer or a severe illness?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be involved for a total of 6 months. The study doesn't ask you to do anything extra beyond what you'd already be doing as part of 'The Lighter Life' online program.

This program involves 8 online sessions that teach you about following a low-carbohydrate diet. You'll get advice on things like what foods to buy when shopping, how to read food labels, and general tips for managing your diabetes through your diet. The idea is to reduce foods like bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, while still allowing healthy fats. You won't have strict targets for how many carbs to eat, but you'll learn a general low-carb approach.

To see how the diet affects you, the researchers will collect some information at the beginning of the study, and then again after 3 months and 6 months. This will involve simple blood tests to check your blood sugar levels (HbA1c) and cholesterol, as well as checking your weight and asking about your diet. Some participants will also be asked to take part in an interview to share their experiences with the diet and the online program.

Potential risks and benefits

Since this study observes people already following 'The Lighter Life' program, it doesn't involve any additional health interventions. A potential benefit of taking part is gaining a clearer understanding of how the low-carbohydrate program affects your weight, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol. The main risk involved is from the simple blood tests needed to collect this information, which might cause minor bruising or discomfort. Remember, your participation is voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

University of Surrey
Approximate
Guildford, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a low-carbohydrate diet?

It's a way of eating that reduces foods high in carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, while still allowing other whole foods, including healthy fats.

How long will I be in the study?

You will be involved in the study for a total of 6 months.

Do I need to visit a clinic often?

The study collects information at the start, at 3 months, and at 6 months. It uses blood tests and other measurements, but it's not specified how many clinic visits are required beyond those already part of 'The Lighter Life' program.

Will I have to take new medicine?

No, this study is about diet and lifestyle changes, not new medications. It's for people with type 2 diabetes who are not currently taking insulin.

Who is paying for this study?

The study has been funded by many individuals and organisations through 'crowd-funding', championed by The Lighter Life charity in the UK.

How to find out more

Martin Whyte

m.b.whyte@surrey.ac.uk +44 (0)1483 688669 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.