People on a low-carb diet may reduce fasting blood sugar levels, three-month average blood sugar levels, and insulin needs.
Carbohydrates (carbs) include starch, sugar and fiber, which directly affect blood sugar levels. The body breaks them down into glucose (sugar) and enters the bloodstream. A low-carb diet focuses on reducing carb consumption, prioritizing foods that help stabilize blood sugar, supporting blood sugar control.
This diet requires a total carb intake of 120-225 grams per day, with the majority of calories coming from fat and protein. On a very low-carb diet, the intake is 20-50 grams per day. The main goal of low carb is to trigger a metabolic process called ketosis, in which the body switches from burning carbs to burning fat for energy. Low carb diets do not count calories but rely on a higher ratio of protein and fat, which promotes satiety.
In 2018, the University of Sydney (Australia) evaluated the impact of a low-carb diet on blood sugar control in people with type 1 diabetes based on 9 studies. They concluded that following a low-carb diet reduces HbA1C (average blood sugar level over three months). This shows that people who eat low-carb have better blood sugar control. Stable blood sugar reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications.
People with type 1 diabetes who follow this diet also have lower insulin needs. Reducing insulin doses can prevent low blood sugar, weight gain, and metabolic problems.
According to a 2015 study by Temple University School of Medicine (USA), 10 obese type 2 diabetic patients who followed this diet for two weeks had significantly improved fasting blood sugar levels. Their blood insulin levels decreased, making them more sensitive to insulin. The average A1C index decreased from 7.3% to 6.8% after just 14 days.
In 2005, scientists at Duke University (USA) also studied the impact of low-carb eating on type 2 diabetes. 28 people with this disease followed a diet of less than 20 grams of carbs per day for 16 weeks. As a result, their fasting blood sugar decreased by 17% and their A1C index decreased from 7.5% to 6.3%.
Eating low carb almost eliminates starch, prioritizing vegetables and protein. Photo: Freepik
According to the American Diabetes Association, the appropriate amount of carbs for people with diabetes depends on factors such as age, activity level, type and severity of diabetes, gender, medications used, and overall health. People should talk to their doctor to determine the appropriate daily carb intake for them.
When applying low carb, patients should prioritize non-starchy vegetables such as leeks, broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes... These vegetables are rich in fiber and have minimal carbs, which have little impact on blood sugar. Choose pure carbs from fruits and whole grains, such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, brown rice, oats, beans, sweet potatoes, whole wheat bread.
Limit your intake of refined, processed carbs and added sugars such as soft drinks, white bread, white rice, sweets, fruit juices, fried foods, and processed meats.
This diet can cause people with diabetes to have low blood sugar. If you take hypoglycemic drugs, your blood sugar can drop rapidly. Hypoglycemia causes dizziness, confusion, sweating, and loss of consciousness in severe cases.
A low-carb diet, if not well balanced, can easily lead to nutritional deficiencies. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. Cutting out too many carbs can also cause the body to not absorb enough essential nutrients. Meals should ensure vegetables rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and lean protein. It is best for patients to consult a doctor before applying to avoid affecting their health.
Mai Cat (According to Very Well Health )
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