Is Eating Refined Carbohydrates Linked to Getting Type 2 Diabetes?

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Gross LS, Li L, Ford ES, et al.: Increased consumption of refined carbohydrates and the epidemic of type 2 diabetes in the United States : An ecologic assessment. Am J Clin Nutr 79:774-779, 2004.

What is the problem, and what is known about it so far?

Recent information suggests that eating a lot of refined carbohydrates (like white bread, white pasta, white rice, pretzels, some cereals, and baked goods such as cakes and cookies) may increase the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance means the body must produce more insulin than normal.

Researchers wanted to study whether eating a large amount of refined carbohydrates increases insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Who was studied?

No people were studied for this review.

How was the study done?

The researchers reviewed material from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Diabetes Surveillance System. Information was also included from the National Health Examination Survey and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The National Nutrient Databank provided nutrition information. Using all of these sources meant the researchers could review information from 1909 to 1997.

What did the researchers find?

People that ate a lot of refined carbohydrates and little fiber had a higher chance of getting type 2 diabetes. The more refined carbohydrates a person eats, the more likely it is that they will be obese and get diabetes.

According to the study, today's carbohydrates are very different from those in the early 1900s. For example, turning whole grains into white flour increases calories, reduces the amount of fiber (by 80%), and reduces protein. More foods include white flour now than in the early 1900s.

What were the limitations of the study?

One limitation of the study is that all the information reviewed was based on large groups of the population. Large groups are sometimes not a true reflection of individuals. Also, many changes in how doctors test and diagnose type 2 diabetes have happened during the period reviewed by the researchers.

What are the implications of the study?

The way Americans eat today is very different from how we ate in the past. More foods contain refined carbohydrates, which reduce the nutrients in the foods and add calories. In addition, more people are getting type 2 diabetes. People should eat fewer refined carbohydrates and eat more fiber and whole grains to reduce their chance of getting type 2 diabetes.