The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) publishes consultation on its draft report on lower carbohydrate diets for people with type 2 diabetes
Public Health England (PHE) asked the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), an independent committee of experts that advises government on nutrition and related health matters, to review the evidence base on lower carbohydrate diets alongside current UK government advice, for people with type 2 diabetes. The consultation is published today, Thursday 5 March 2020.
The comprehensive review was conducted by a joint working group comprising members of SACN and members nominated by Diabetes UK, NHS England, the British Dietetic Association, Royal College of Physicians and Royal College of GPs.
The effect of lower compared to higher carbohydrate diets were considered on a range of outcomes including body weight and measures of blood glucose concentrations.
Following a robust, systematic assessment of the available evidence, the draft conclusions are:
Current UK government advice (represented by the Eatwell Guide) is that for the general population, around 50% of total dietary energy should be from starchy carbohydrates (such as potatoes, bread and rice), opting for higher fibre or wholegrain versions where possible.
People with type 2 diabetes are currently advised to follow healthy eating advice for the general population.
This is based on recommendations made by SACN following its 2015 review of the evidence on carbohydrates and health.
Dr Adrienne Cullum, head of nutrition science at PHE, said:
Professor Ian Macdonald, co-Chair of the SACN joint Working Group, said:
Once SACN has considered all the responses to the consultation, it will publish its final report and make recommendations to government.
The consultation opens today, 5 March 2020, and closes 30 April 2020.