Caruso Clinic


Natural News You & Your Family Can Trust.

Subscribe now and receive 3 free books! 

NHANES Report on A Substantially Increased Risk of Death Associated with a Very Low Carb Diet

     A study of approximately 447,000 people found an association with the lowest carbohydrate intake and an increased mortality (death) rate. The study showed that the lowest carb diets had a 31% mortality rate compared to those with the highest carb diets. Noting that in the NHANES study they found that the highest carb diets were are much more risk for mortality compared to those with a moderate carbohydrate intake (which was considered at approx 50%). Moderate carb intake is more in line with a dietary plan similar to the zone of south beach diet, where as very low carb, is more in line with ketogenic diet. The number of carbs per day in ketogenic diet can vary as well from person to person.

     However, it appears the media is lumping all diets that ask for moderation of our carbohydrate and starch intake as "low carb". This is where people become confused about diet, the media skews studies and the public doesn't have easy access to read the original research. This type of reporting by the media makes one wonder if the way the media reports the news is funded by the folks who make diabetic or cholesterol medication. When one opens the link below, from MedScapeToday, it had a picture of white pasta, white bread and buns, making one wonder if that particular article was attempting to suggest that eating plenty of refined flour products was associated with longevity.

     In short, what we suggest at the clinic we take away from this news is that for the long haul, don't stay extremely low carb for a long time period of time since it is associated with early death. Be mindful that the highest carb diets are also linked to an increased mortality rate and incidence of disease such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Moderate carbohydrate intake is best, between 40 to 55% of one's daily food intake. IT is what they have said for years about moderation, sticking with whole foods, moderate whole grains, nuts, seeds, healthy fats such as olive oil, fish, legumes and plenty of healthy non starchy veggies and fruits which are good for health and longevity. Please note each person has individualized needs for certain nutrients and not one diet suits all.