Impact of Carbohydrate-Adjusted Diets on Insulin Sensitivity Among Overweight and Obese Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - Report - MDSpire

Impact of Carbohydrate-Adjusted Diets on Insulin Sensitivity Among Overweight and Obese Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

  • By

  • Yasaman Khorshidi

  • Nazanin Moslehi

  • Faraneh Zolfaghari

  • Mahdieh Golzarand

  • Golaleh Asghari

  • January 7, 2026

  • 0 min

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Impact of Carbohydrate-Adjusted Diets on Insulin Sensitivity in Youth

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the effects of carbohydrate-modified diets on insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese children and adolescents. The findings indicate that dietary adjustments in carbohydrate quantity and quality may improve fasting serum insulin and HOMA-IR, although results vary across studies.

Background

Pediatric obesity is a growing concern, linked to serious health issues such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Understanding dietary interventions that can enhance insulin sensitivity is crucial for managing obesity in children and adolescents. The Carbohydrate-Insulin Model suggests that modifying carbohydrate intake may play a significant role in improving metabolic health.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Carbohydrate-modified diets may improve insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese youth.
  • Previous meta-analyses have shown mixed results regarding the impact of low-GI diets on fasting insulin and HOMA-IR.
  • Studies indicate that reducing carbohydrate intake can lead to weight loss but may not consistently improve insulin homeostasis.
  • Evidence suggests that dietary quality, rather than just macronutrient ratio, is important for metabolic outcomes in adolescents.
  • Interventions combining carbohydrate quality improvements with calorie restriction show potential benefits for insulin sensitivity.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider dietary carbohydrate modifications as part of a comprehensive approach to managing obesity in pediatric populations. Emphasizing the quality of carbohydrates and integrating these dietary changes with behavioral interventions may enhance metabolic health outcomes.

Conclusion

The systematic review highlights the potential of carbohydrate-adjusted diets to improve insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese children and adolescents, warranting further research to clarify these effects.

References

  1. BMC Endocrine Disorders, 2026 -- Effects of carbohydrate-modified diets on insulin sensitivity in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
  2. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2026 -- Nutritional Approaches for Weight Control and Glycemic Regulation in Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis of Intervention Studies
  3. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2026 -- Impact of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet on β-Cell Function in Adults Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
  4. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2026 -- Exploring Four Evidence-Supported Dietary Approaches for Managing Type 2 Diabetes
  5. Children and Adolescents: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 - PMC
  6. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism — Adult-based Genetic Risk Scores for Insulin Resistance Associate With Cardiometabolic Traits in Children and Adolescents
  7. 14. Children and Adolescents: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 - PMC
  8. Effects of carbohydrate-modified diets on insulin sensitivity in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials | BMC Endocrine Disorders | Springer Nature Link
  9. Improved insulin sensitivity and body composition, irrespective of macronutrient intake, after a 12 month intervention in adolescents with pre-diabetes; RESIST a randomised control trial | BMC Pediatrics | Full Text

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