Carbohydrate and Fiber Recommendations for Individuals with Diabetes: A Quantitative Assessment and Meta-Analysis of the Evidence

It is recommended that the diabetic individual should be encouraged to achieve and maintain a desirable body weight and that the diet should provide these percentages of nutrients: carbohydrate, ≥55%; protein, 12–16%; fat, <30%; and monounsaturated fat, 12-15%.

Abstract

To review international nutrition recommendations with a special emphasis on carbohydrate and fiber, analyze clinical trial information, and provide an evidence-based recommendation for medical nutrition therapy for individuals with diabetes. Relevant articles were identified by a thorough review of the literature and the data tabulated. Fixed-effects meta-analyses techniques were used to obtain mean estimates of changes in outcome measures in response to diet interventions. Most international organizations recommend that diabetic individuals achieve and maintain a desirable body weight with a body mass index of /=55%; protein, 12-16%; fat, <30%; and monounsaturated fat, 12-15%. The diet should provide 25-50 g/day of dietary fiber (15-25 g/1000 kcal). Glycemic index information should be incorporated into exchanges and teaching material.