Dietary strategies to achieve remission of Type 2 Diabetes

Dietary Strategies for Remission of Type 2 Diabetes - a Randomized Controlled Trial (CARBCOUNT)

Not applicable Interventional University of Bergen · NCT04943926

This study is testing whether a low-carb, whole food diet works better than a very low-calorie diet for helping people with Type 2 Diabetes achieve remission.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment600 (estimated)
Ages24 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Bergen Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bergen, Vestland)
Trial IDNCT04943926 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of a moderate, whole food-based low-carbohydrate high-fat diet against a nutritionally complete very-low-calorie formula diet followed by an energy-restricted diet in achieving remission of Type 2 Diabetes. The study will recruit at least 588 participants, who will be randomized into two dietary intervention groups, with adjustments made based on individual needs to promote long-term adherence. Researchers will also investigate whether changes in glucose variability and other factors can predict diet-induced remission rates. Each dietary approach will ensure participants receive essential nutrients while emphasizing high-quality, minimally processed foods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults with a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes for less than 10 years, a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher, and an HbA1c level of 48 mmol/mol or higher.

Not a fit: Patients who are insulin-dependent or have severe comorbid conditions such as recent myocardial infarction or severe psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective dietary strategies for achieving remission of Type 2 Diabetes, potentially reducing the need for medication.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the DiRECT trial, have shown success with similar dietary approaches for Type 2 Diabetes remission.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* HbA1c ≥48 mmol/mol (with or without medical treatment)
* Less than 10 years since the diagnosis of T2D
* BMI ≥27 kg/m2 (≥25 kg/m2 for Asians)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Treatment with insulin \>25 IU
* HbA1c concentration of 12% or more (≥108 mmol/mol)
* Insulin to C-peptide ratio \<0.8 (indicative of insulin deficiency)
* Myocardial infarction within the previous 6 months, and severe or unstable heart failure or other severe diseases including cancer, psychiatric/eating disorders, severe depression and substance abuse

Where this trial is running

Bergen, Vestland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2Overweight and ObesityHypertensionGlucose IntoleranceInsulin ResistanceDyslipidemia Associated With Type II Diabetes MellitusLow-carbohydrate high-fat dietEnergy restricted diet
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.