The Role of Carbohydrate Intake in Obesity: Implications For Diet and Weight Management

Carbohydrates, the primary source of dietary energy, play a pivotal role in the development of obesity. Recent research has shifted focus from merely the quantity of carbohydrate intake to the quality, glycemic response, and timing. Excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugar-sweetened beverages contributes to fat accumulation through mechanisms such as hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and de novo lipogenesis. Furthermore, variations in carbohydrate metabolism among different populations—children, women, and specific ethnic groups—necessitate a personalized nutritional approach. While low-carbohydrate diets (e.g., ketogenic) offer short-term weight loss benefits, their long-term efficacy is comparable to high-carbohydrate diets if caloric intake is controlled. The integration of intermittent fasting, carbohydrate cycling, and microbiome-friendly dietary interventions reflects the evolving landscape of obesity management. Additionally, dietary fiber, whole grains, and low-GI foods provide metabolic advantages. Public health strategies must emphasize food quality, labeling reforms, and education to curb global obesity rates. This review highlights the biochemical, clinical, and policy-related aspects of carbohydrate intake in obesity, offering actionable insights for dietitians, clinicians, and researchers working on effective weight management strategies.