Type 2 Diabetes: Does the Ketogenic Diet Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels?

Is a ketogenic diet safe for people who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes? Recommended food for people with high blood sugar encourages weight loss: A ketogenic diet is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, so it’s puzzling how such a high-fat diet is an option for relief high blood sugar level.

The ketogenic diet highlights a low consumption of carbohydrates and a higher consumption of fats and proteins. The body then breaks down fat through a process called “ketosis” and produces a fuel source called ketones. The diet generally improves blood sugar levels while lowering the body’s need for insulin. The diet was initially developed for the treatment of epilepsy, but the types of foods and the eating pattern it highlights are being studied for the benefit of people with type 2 diabetes.

The ketogenic diet contains foods like…

• pasta,
• fruits
• bread

as a source of body energy. People with type 2 diabetes suffer from high and unstable blood sugar levels, and the ketogenic diet helps them by allowing the body to keep blood sugar at a healthy low level.

How does a ketogenic diet help many people with type 2 diabetes? In 2016, the Journal of Obesity and Eating Disorders published a review suggesting that a keto diet may help people with diabetes by improving their A1c test results, more so than a caloric diet.

The ketogenic diet emphasizes eating more protein and fat, which makes you feel less hungry and therefore leads to weight loss. Proteins and fats take longer to digest than carbohydrates and help keep energy levels up.

In a nutshell, the ketogenic diet…

• lower blood sugar,
• improves insulin sensitivity and
• promotes less dependence on medications.

The Keto diet plan. Ketogenic diets are strict, but if followed correctly, they can provide a nutritious and healthy nutrition routine. It’s all about staying away from carbohydrate foods that are likely to spike your blood sugar levels.

People with type 2 diabetes are often advised to focus on this diet plan, as it consists of a combination of low-carb, high-fat, and moderate-protein foods. It’s also important because you avoid highly processed foods and indulge in lightly processed, healthy foods.

A ketogenic diet should consist of these types of foods…

• low-carb vegetables: eat vegetables with every meal. Avoid starchy vegetables like corn and potatoes.
• Eggs: they contain a low amount of carbohydrates and are a high source of protein.
• meats: eat fatty meats but avoid excessive amounts. High amounts of protein plus low carbs can cause the liver to convert protein to glucose, causing the person to go out of ketosis.
• fish: an excellent source of protein.

Eat healthy sources of fat like avocados, seeds, nuts, and olive oil.

Conclusion. It’s helpful to go by what your body requires rather than what you feel you need. Always follow your doctor’s advice on nutrition and medication, and check with your doctor before starting a new eating plan.