Why is the keto diet good for diabetics?

Why is the keto diet good for diabetics?

Diabetes type 2 is a disorder that makes it difficult to control blood sugar levels. Maintaining healthy body weight and adhering to a diet that is healthy will help a person feel better and manage their condition. A diet high in fat contains a moderate amount of protein, and an extremely small amount of carbohydrates is known as a ketogenic diet. This type of diet may assist certain individuals in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Some people have hypothesized that a diabetic could benefit from following a diet like this one, although the American Diabetes Association (ADA) does not promote any particular diet above others.

Every person has distinct nutritional demands. Diet programs are now individualized for each patient by doctors, taking into account the patient's present eating habits, preferences, and desired weight or blood sugar level for the patient.

Bread, rice, pasta, milk, and fruit are all foods high in carbs, which are the primary fuel source for many of the body's operations. Insulin helps the body transport glucose from the blood into the cells, which can be used as an energy source.

Insulin, on the other hand, either do not exist in a diabetic patient or does not function normally in that patient. Because of this, the body's capacity to make effective utilization of carbs is hindered, which, in turn, leads to elevated levels of sugar in the blood.

Effects on blood glucose

The ketogenic diet may result in a reduction in the amount of glucose found in the blood. People who have type 2 diabetes are often advised to monitor their carbohydrate consumption since carbs are converted into sugar and, when consumed in large quantities, can cause rises in blood sugar levels.

Consuming excessive carbohydrates can be hazardous to your health if you already have high blood glucose levels. By shifting the focus from sugar to fat, some people are able to lower their blood sugar levels.

Pros

  • It has been demonstrated that adhering to a keto diet is useful for managing one's blood sugar levels.
  • It has been demonstrated that adhering to a keto diet will result in successful weight loss. If you have insulin resistance or a body mass index (BMI) that is greater than 30, the ketogenic diet may be an option for you to help you reach your goal weight more rapidly.
  • A reduction in one's need for diabetes medicine and insulin can be one of the potential benefits of adopting a ketogenic diet provided that this eating plan is carried out under the watchful supervision of a medical professional.

Cons

  • Following a ketogenic diet can put you at an elevated risk for hypoglycemia, often known as low blood sugar. This is especially true if your medicine and insulin dosages aren't adjusted according to how you eat.
  • Because it is such an extreme diet, staying on the ketogenic diet for an extended period might be challenging. Dieting that involves frequent food restriction and reintroduction can prevent you from forming the long-term healthy behaviors that are necessary for keeping diabetes under control.
  • Supplementation could be necessary if you're missing out on essential nutrients since you're avoiding certain food groups. Discuss the possibility of taking vitamin and mineral supplements with your primary care provider.
  • Because ketogenic diets tend to be low in fiber, constipation may occur as a side effect. Think about getting your fiber from low-carb sources or using fiber supplements.
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