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Low-carbohydrate (low-carb) diets are a strategy for weight loss. Today, there continues to be an interest in low-carb approaches. While all low-carb approaches reduce the overall intake of carbohydrates, there is no clear consensus on what defines a low-carb diet. Studies have defined low carbohydrate as a percent of daily macronutrient intake or total daily carbohydrate load. This activity reviews the evidence and effectiveness of low-carb approaches in clinical medicine. Objectives: Identify patients who may benefit from a low-carbohydrate diet based on their health status, goals, and preferences. Implement evidence-based guidelines and strategies to prescribe and monitor low-carbohydrate diets for patients effectively. Select and recommend appropriate food choices, meal plans, and dietary resources to support patients following a low-carbohydrate diet. Collaborate with registered dietitians, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and coordinated care, ensuring patients receive accurate and consistent guidance. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Since 1860, and more recently, in 1972, low carbohydrate (low-carb) diets have been a strategy for weight loss. Today, there continues to be an interest in low-carb approaches. While all low-carbohydrate approaches reduce the overall intake of carbohydrates, no clear consensus on what defines a low-carb diet exists. There are 3 macronutrients—carbohydrates (4 kcal/g), fat (9 kcal/g), and protein (4 kcal/g)—found in food. Therefore, studies have defined low carbohydrate as a percent of daily macronutrient intake or total daily carbohydrate load. This review defines low-carbo diets as follows: Very low-carbohydrate (<10% carbohydrates) or 20 to 50 g/d Low-carbohydrate (<26% carbohydrates) or less than 130 g/d Moderate-carbohydrate (26%-44%) High-carbohydrate (45% or greater) For reference, the Institute of Medicine proposes Americans obtain 45% to 65% of calories from carbohydrates.[1] This activity reviews the evidence and effectiveness of low-carb approaches in clinical medicine.

Interprofessional care coordination involving clinicians, pharmacists, dieticians, and nutritionists working collaboratively, providing patient education, and monitoring patient progress and health status is the optimal approach to implementing a low-carb diet to achieve health goals.

Clinical Pharmacist Patients on chronic medications may require rapid medication adjustments while on a low-carbohydrate diet. Recently a small randomized controlled study demonstrated improved glycemic control and reduction of medication use led by a community-based clinical pharmacist.[42]