You’ve probably read thousands of headlines about the ketogenic diet. Known as keto for short, the famous diet has gained widespread acceptance thanks in large part to the sponsorships of celebrities.

If you have diabetes, should you adopt the ketogenic diet? For those with type 1 diabetes, the diet is dangerous, but according to many studies, managing type 2 diabetes is more complicated. While some studies suggest that the ketogenic diet may be beneficial, other studies emphasize the value of whole grains, a nutritious but restricted food group in the ketogenic diet, in the diets of diabetics.

This article examines the pros and cons of following a keto diet for diabetics, as well as carb-restricting strategies for improving your blood sugar levels.

Ketosis vs. Ketoacidosis

When discussing keto and diabetes, there are a few vocabulary terms that can be confusing (especially when they all start with “keto“). Before we begin, let’s go over a few:

• When your body runs out of carbohydrate energy, it burns lipids called ketones.
• When following the ketogenic diet, ketosis is the ideal state. It indicates that your body is using ketones to produce energy because it has run out of the glucose it obtains from carbs.
• When things get out of control and too many ketones accumulate, your blood becomes acidic, a condition known as ketoacidosis. This can occur in patients with Type 2 diabetes as well, although it is more common in those with Type 1 diabetes when blood sugar levels are excessively high and insulin levels are insufficient. Excessive thirst, frequent urination, disorientation, weakness, and exhaustion are warning signs. Ketoacidosis, brought on by diabetes, is a serious illness. Contact a doctor right away if you suspect you may be developing it.

What is the keto diet?

Limiting the intake of carbohydrates is the central concept of the keto diet.

The idea is to limit carbohydrate-rich foods that could raise a person’s insulin levels. Typically, the carbohydrate intake on a keto diet ranges from 20–50 grams (g) per day for a 2,000-calorie diet.

To follow the keto diet, people might consider developing a diet plan with 10% of their calories from carbohydrates, 20% from protein, and 70% from fat. However, there are different versions of the diet, and macronutrient proportions vary depending on the type.

Is the keto diet for diabetics safe?

Some diabetics can safely and successfully follow the ketogenic diet. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks and consulting your physician will help you decide if it’s good for you.

Since diabetes is a chronic illness, managing it must fit into your daily routine. Though they can be useful, restrictive diets like the ketogenic diet aren’t always the best option for sustainability.

How a Diabetes Keto Diet for Diabetics Works

The ketogenic diet is restrictive. It removes or severely reduces the number of carbohydrates in a person’s diet. Since fat provides the majority of calories for those following the ketogenic diet, energy production converts fat into energy rather than glucose.

People with diabetes can better control their blood sugar levels when total glucose levels are reduced. Diabetes patients are already advised to limit their consumption of carbs and other items, such as added sugars, that raise blood sugar levels. For this reason, the ketogenic diet has been regarded as a good low-carb choice for diabetics.

Pros

• Blood sugar management has been demonstrated to be successful when a ketogenic diet is followed.
• It has been demonstrated that following a ketogenic diet helps people lose weight. Keto may be a viable alternative for you to rapidly reach your goal weight if you have insulin resistance or a body max index (BMI) higher than thirty.
• A ketogenic diet can help you become less dependent on insulin and diabetic medication.

Cons

• Following a ketogenic diet may put you at higher risk for hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, particularly if your insulin and medication regimen aren’t balanced with your eating habits.
• Supplementation may be necessary to compensate for nutrient deficiencies caused by eliminating particular dietary categories. Consult your physician to determine whether you require vitamin and mineral supplements.
• Because ketogenic diets tend to be low in fiber, constipation may ensue. Think about fiber supplements or low-carb options.

Where to Start With the Keto Diet

You’ve discussed the ketogenic diet with your doctors and are prepared to track your blood sugar and ketones since it seems exciting. How do you begin? 

Most diabetes-friendly diets are a slight step up from the ketogenic diet. But remember that compared to other healthy eating patterns like the Mediterranean diet, the keto diet is much more stringent and may be harder to stick to over time.

To get started on the keto diet, consider the following food sources:

Carbs: Try to eat as many veggies as you can, but small amounts of whole grains, legumes, and fruit can also be beneficial.

Protein: Lean meats, fish, nuts, and seeds rather than meats high in saturated fat, such as sausage.

Healthy Fats: Steer clear of saturated fat sources and include nuts, seeds, and some oils, such as olive oil.

Bread, pasta, alcohol, sugary beverages (including fruit juice), and starchy vegetables like potatoes are among the foods that should be avoided (or consumed in moderation) when following the ketogenic diet. Snyder warns those attempting the ketogenic diet that they might need to take multivitamins and fiber supplements.

Should people with type 2 diabetes try the keto diet?

The primary issue with the keto diet is that, due to its extreme restrictions, it can be challenging to stick to over time. It is not advised by experts to stick to this diet for more than a year.

There is no one ideal diet for diabetes management. The secret is to stick to a diet that suits individual needs and tastes while maintaining clinical health goals like weight or blood sugar levels. According to specialists, the benefits of the ketogenic diet for type 2 diabetes must last for at least a year.

More long-term studies with larger samples of more varied research participants are therefore required.

When on this diet, a person might want to have medical monitoring. Before attempting a ketogenic diet or any other major dietary changes, it is always advisable to see a doctor.

Summary

For diabetics, the ketogenic diet is a good way to control blood sugar levels. There are other low-carb diet options available, though. Additionally, many negative dangers could endanger life. Additionally, the diet is quite restrictive, making it difficult for some people to follow.

It is ultimately up to you and your doctor to decide what kind of diet will assist you manage your diabetes. You should discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the ketogenic diet with your doctor before beginning any new diet.

For personalized care and deeper insights into managing diabetes, consider booking an appointment with our specialist. Your health deserves the best attention.

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