Unhealthy lifestyles and habits may result in increased rates of overweight and obesity, requiring people to follow various diets. As noticed by Nilsson et al. (2013), one of the most popular dietary patterns is to reduce carbohydrates and increase protein and fat intake. Since the short- and long-term effects of such a diet on people’s health are not studied properly, the researchers indicate this as their article’s purpose.
Indeed, while lower intakes of carbohydrates can help a person lose weight, it is essential to understand whether such an approach can cause cancer. To explore this concern, Nilsson et al. (2013) conducted a population-based cohort with 62,582 males and females. Generally, the article’s authors managed to determine that a moderate reduction of carbohydrates and a moderate increase of fats and proteins are not related to cancer incidence. At the same time, a significant reduction in carbohydrate intake, leading to a substantial increase in protein in the diet, can be associated with higher risks of respiratory tract cancer in women and men (Nilsson et al., 2013, p. 6). While other factors like smoking could have altered the results, such a connection cannot be ignored. What is more, Nilsson et al. (2013) mention that a carbohydrate-reduced diet can impact carcinogenesis: some food or its components, such as red and processed meat, can lead to cancer development. Finally, the authors indicate that their results are insufficient and further studies are needed.
To draw a conclusion, the relationship between lower intakes of carbohydrate and the subsequent development of diseases like cancer are not proved in the article. While some concerns are identified and supported by research, there is not enough data for Nilsson et al. (2013) to be sure. External factors like smoking and genetics could have altered the results, making it more challenging for the authors to come to certain conclusions. However, it is recommended for people to consider this potential connection carefully before choosing such a diet.
Reference
Nilsson, M. L., Winkvist, A., Johansson, I., Lindahl, B., Hallmans, G., Lenner, P., & Van Guelpen, B. (2013). Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet score and risk of incident cancer: A prospective cohort study. Nutrition Journal, 12(58).