by Christine L. Rice

Created on: July 11, 2011

When a person eats, the chemical, insulin, is produced by the body, in order to help regulate blood sugar, and is then absorbed by the cells. Generally speaking, this affects a person's energy levels and moods. However, the cells of people with type 2 diabetes do not receive insulin properly, so they are unable to regulate blood sugar. The best way to handle this is to cut out sugar from their diet (no sugar consumed means no need for insulin). Therefore, a low-carbohydrate diet is best for diabetics. Below is an explanation as to why that is so.

People with type 2 diabetes are not born with diabetes, but rather, they develop it later in life. It is believed that lifestyle, especially diet, affects a person's tendency to develop type 2 diabetes. More specifically, consuming a diet that is high in sugar and carbohydrates for many years can lead to type 2 diabetes. To reiterate, the cells of the person with type 2 diabetes cannot effectively receive insulin, and this is because the cell receptors are deformed from trying to receive too much insulin over the years.

Many people with type 2 diabetes take medication that sends additional insulin to the cells to help regulate blood sugar. However, the medication is unnecessary if sugar and refined carbohydrates are avoided. That is why the healthiest diet for people with type 2 diabetes is a low-carbohydrate diet. This is a diet that is low in sugar, which is a substance that is not necessary for proper body function, and which is harmful to the health of a person with diabetes.

Generally speaking, people who follow low-carbohydrate diets maintain normal blood sugar levels. In addition, not as much insulin is needed by the body because less sugar is consumed. This is what helps control diabetes. In fact, many people with diabetes who follow a low-carbohydrate diet, are able to take less medication (but only if instructed by their doctor).

The reason why a low-carbohydrate diet is better for diabetics, than simply a diet low in sugar, is because carbohydrates are converted to glucose quicker than protein-based foods, or other low-carbohydrate foods, like vegetables and cheese. And since glucose is a type of sugar, carbohydrates affect the body very similar to if sugar was consumed directly.

Some people with diabetes may worry about lacking the motivation to stick to a low-carbohydrate diet in the long-term. But many of them can still enjoy sugar-free deserts, snacks, and beverages, as well as some dairy products, nuts, and fruit. It is worth it for them to follow a low-carbohydrate diet as best as they can.

When people with type 2 diabetes follow a low-carbohydrate diet, the health benefits are incredible. If the diet is maintained for a significant amount of time, some people with diabetes are actually able to go off their medication (but only under the instruction and supervision of their doctor).

Lowering medications and feeling better physically, are realistic goals for people with diabetes who eat a low-carbohydrate diet.

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