People with insulin resistance may want to consider following a low-carbohydrate diet rather than a low-fat diet to achieve better weight loss results, according to the findings of a new study.

Researchers followed 45 obese women between the ages of 18 and 65 years for a 12-week period. All of the participants had insulin resistance, which is a common precursor for type 2 diabetes. They were assigned to follow either a low-fat or lower-carb diet for the duration of the study.

While both groups lost weight, those following the lower-carb diet lost 21 percent more – 19.6 pounds versus 16.2 pounds in the low-fat diet group.

Scientists say that individuals with insulin resistance metabolize carbohydrates, or "carbs," abnormally, which may affect their rate of weight loss.

"These data have potential widespread applications for clinicians when counseling people with insulin resistance to help improve weight loss as part of a calorie-restricted diet," said the study’s lead author, Raymond Plodkowski, M.D. "They should at least initially lower their carbohydrate intake."