Table 1.

Level of carbohydrate restriction related to BMI and waist circumference The level of carbohydrate restriction depends on the severity of insulin resistance, which is often indicated bij BMI and waist circumference.

BMI > 35 kg/m2. Waist circumference male > 102 cm, female > 88 cm.

Fat mass > 50 kg, visceral fat > 20%

Very strong carbohydrate restriction < 20 grams (VLCKD)

The diet is fit for people with grade 3 obesity or grade 2 with comorbidities.

BMI > 35 kg/m2. Waist circumference male > 94- 102 cm, female> 88 cm.

Fat mass > 40- 50 kg, visceral fat 13- 20%

Strong carbohydrate restriction 20–50 grams (low carb)

The diet is fit for people with grade 3 obesity or grade 2 with comorbidities.

BMI > 30–35 kg/m2. Waist circumference male > 94 −102 cm, female > 80–88 cm.

Fat mass > 30–40 kg, visceral fat > 13%

Moderate carbohydrate restriction 50–75 grams (low carb)

For many patients a restriction of 50–75 grams is a large reduction of the daily

carbohydrate intake.

BMI > 25–30 kg/m 2. Waist circumference male > 102 cm, female > 80–88 cm.

Fat mass > 25–30 kg, visceral fat > 10–13% Mild restriction 75–125 grams or <26% energy%

Leaving out carbohydrate rich snacks leads to a significantly lower carbohydrate intake.

BMI > 25–30 kg/m2. Waist circumference male > 102 cm, female >80- 88 cm.

Fat mass > 20–25 kg, visceral fat 10–13%

Light carbohydrate restriction 125–175 grams 26%–45 energy%

A carbohydrate level for weight maintenance only.