Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. While medication is available to help manage diabetes, there is no cure. However, studies have shown that a low-carbohydrate diet can help put type 2 diabetes in remission, allowing people to reduce or even eliminate their need for medication.
Low-Carb
Low-carbohydrate diets restrict carbohydrates, such as those found in sugary and starchy foods like bread, pasta, and sweets. Instead, these diets emphasize protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables. One of the benefits of a low-carbohydrate diet for people with type 2 diabetes is that it helps manage blood glucose levels. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream and raises blood sugar levels. By reducing carbohydrate intake, people with type 2 diabetes can prevent blood sugar spikes and help regulate their glucose levels.
Several studies have shown the efficacy of low-carbohydrate diets in managing blood glucose levels. In a randomized controlled trial, patients with type 2 diabetes who followed a low-carbohydrate diet for six months had greater reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, a measure of average blood glucose levels over the previous three months, compared to those on a low-fat diet (Saslow et al., 2017). Another randomized controlled trial found that a low-carbohydrate diet improved glycemic control and reduced the need for diabetes medication in patients with type 2 diabetes (Iqbal et al., 2018).
Sensitivity to insulin
In addition to managing blood glucose levels, low-carbohydrate diets also increase insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin sensitivity refers to how well the body responds to insulin. People with type 2 diabetes are often insulin resistant, which means their bodies don’t respond to insulin properly. This can lead to high blood sugar levels. However, studies have shown that reducing carbohydrate intake can increase insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to better regulate blood sugar levels.
A randomized controlled trial found that patients with type 2 diabetes who followed a low-carbohydrate diet for 12 months had greater improvements in insulin sensitivity compared to those on a low-fat diet (Guldbrand et al., 2012). Another randomized controlled trial found that a low-carbohydrate diet improved insulin sensitivity and reduced the need for diabetes medication in patients with type 2 diabetes (Sato et al., 2014).
Weight Loss
Weight loss is also a key factor in the management of type 2 diabetes. Excess weight can make it more difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, and it is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Low-carbohydrate diets have been shown to aid in weight loss, making them an effective tool for managing diabetes.
Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is another strategy that can help manage blood glucose levels. Intermittent fasting involves limiting food intake to a specific window of time each day, typically between 8-12 hours. During the fasting period, the body uses stored glucose for energy, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Exercise
Exercise is also an important factor in managing type 2 diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. It also aids in weight loss, which is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Talk to your doctor
While a low-carbohydrate diet can be effective for managing type 2 diabetes, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes. People with diabetes who are on medication may need to adjust their medication dosage if they switch to a low-carbohydrate diet. In addition, a low-carbohydrate diet may not be suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions should not follow a low-carbohydrate diet without medical supervision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a low-carbohydrate diet can be an effective tool for managing type 2 diabetes. By reducing carbohydrate intake, people with diabetes can better manage their blood glucose levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and aid in weight loss if necessary. Additionally, incorporating strategies such as intermittent fasting and exercise can further improve the management of blood glucose levels. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes, especially if you are on medication or have other medical conditions.
16-hrs For Life
The 16-hrs For Life program has shown to have significant results for people with type 2 diabetes. Achieving a 10% weight loss within 12 weeks without exercise, on the program, is not uncommon. Fasting in combination with a scientifically formulated eating plan has yielded spectacular results. Reach out to a supportive community to reverse type 2 diabetes and get off medication. Enquire about the 16-hrs For Life program below.
References:
Guldbrand, H., Dizdar, B., Bunjaku, B., Lindström, T., Bachrach-Lindström, M., Fredrikson, M., & Östgren, C. J. (2012). In type 2 diabetes, randomization to advice to follow a low-carbohydrate diet transiently improves glycaemic control compared with advice to follow a low-fat diet producing a similar weight loss. Diabetologia, 55(8), 2118–2127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00125-012-2567-4
Iqbal, N., Vetter, M. L., Moore, R. H., Chittams, J. L., Dalton-Bakes, C. V., Dowd, M., & Williams-Smith, C. (2018). Effects of a low-carbohydrate diet on glycemic control in outpatients with severe type 2 diabetes. Nutrition & Diabetes, 8(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41387-018-0033-0
Saslow, L. R., Kim, S., Daubenmier, J. J., Moskowitz, J. T., Phinney, S. D., Goldman, V., … & Hecht, F. M. (2017). A randomized pilot trial of a moderate carbohydrate diet compared to a very low carbohydrate diet in overweight or obese individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus or prediabetes. PLoS One, 12(12), e0186117. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0186117
Sato, J., Kanazawa, A., Makita, S., Hatae, C., Komiya, K., Shimizu, T., … & Takahashi, Y. (2014). A randomized controlled trial of 130 g/day low-carbohydrate diet in type 2 diabetes with poor glycemic control. Clinical Nutrition, 33(2), 233–240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2013.06.002
