A low-carb diet is a popular lifestyle choice that involves restricting carbs to less than 130g per day. While research has found this type of food plan can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their weight and health, it’s important to note the risks for children as well as those with Type 1 Diabetes; evidence suggests a low-carb approach may be detrimental in some cases.
Ultimately, anyone considering starting this dietary pattern should first understand all the potential pros and cons involved before making any decisions about what works best for them personally.
Do low carb diets stunt growth?
While there is limited evidence when it comes to the impact of low-carb diets on children’s growth, some experts suggest that this type of diet may stunt growth in certain cases.
One study published in The Lancet found that children who followed a low-carb diet for two years were shorter than those who didn’t, and they also had lower levels of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1), a hormone that is essential for childhood growth.
While it’s important to note that this study was small and needs more research to be confirmed, it’s still worth considering if you’re thinking about starting a low-carb diet with your kids.
If you do decide to go ahead, it’s important to make sure your child gets enough protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients for healthy growth. Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about how to best do this.