Nutrition & Metabolism Society Conference

January 20, 2006

Valerie Berkowicz, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., C.D.E

On January 20, the Nutrition & Metabolism Society held a 3 day conference entitled, “Nutritional & Metabolic Aspects of Carbohydrate Restriction”. These scientific sessions focused on the effects of carbohydrate, protein and fat on the health parameters effecting metabolic syndrome, or syndrome X, weight, insulin levels, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol (triglycerides, LDL and HDL).

Interestingly enough much of the conference was dedicated to showing how lifestyle changes could improve quality of life, health and weight control. When using nutrition as a medical treatment for syndrome X, you may be able to improve the multiple factors affecting syndrome X and reduce or eliminate medications. Specific discussions focused on eating adequate amounts of protein to control appetite while evidence was shown that there is a positive metabolic effect when lowering carbohydrates and using healthy fats.

Main Points of Interest:

1.    Those with an apple (vs. pear) body shape are more likely to have increased insulin secretion, insulin resistance, increased blood sugar and triglycerides and higher levels of fat circulating in the blood before and after a meal.

2.    High insulin levels may be the cause of syndrome X 

3.    “Restricting carbohydrates may be the treatment of choice for conditions that respond to its insulin lowering effects”

4.    High fat and high carbohydrate meals (typical American eating pattern) stimulates internal senses to eat more

5.    Increased protein and reduced carbohydrates: increases weight loss, increases loss of body fat, minimizes the loss of muscle, increases HDL (good cholesterol) and decreases triglycerides

6.    “Low carbohydrate eating may be an empowering tool to improve blood sugar without using blood sugar lowering medication”

7.    “Overall, low carbohydrate diets are superior to low fat diets for improving syndrome X and also have positive effects on improving risks associated with inflammation”.

8.     When restricting carbohydrates, higher fat intakes will help burn fat

We are currently updating our treatment page and you will soon be able to view Specific Nutrition Suggestions.

Content updated January 31, 2006