University of Vermont Study: Low-Carb Diets Improve Nutrient Intake and Diet Quality

Researchers from the University of Vermont have discovered that low-carb diets, including ketogenic plans, can improve diet quality by addressing key nutrient deficiencies. In their study, they evaluated three seven-day low-carb meal plans, all of which exceeded recommended levels for most vitamins and minerals.

Co-author Beth Bradley noted, “Our findings suggest that low-carb eating patterns, in addition to supporting weight management, can enhance diet quality and help close critical nutrient gaps.” However, the study did observe slight deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as iron for younger women and calcium for older adults, in some of the plans.

The researchers also found that two of the three meal plans provided ample fiber. Bradley emphasized, “The idea that a low-carb diet has to be low in fiber is not supported by the data,” adding that high-fiber foods can be successfully integrated into a low-carb lifestyle.