Low Carbohydrate Diet
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Tuesday, March 28, 2006 |
Q: "Have you read the book The Carbohydrate Addict's Health Heart Program by Drs. Richard and Rachael Heller and Dr Fredrick J. Vagnini? It's a about cutting carbohydrate cravings, insulin, and insulin resistance by following their eating program. I read it and it sounds like a great alternative to the more strict diabetic eating program but I want to find out if any professionals would recommend trying it. I am a newly diagnosed diabetic. My doctor says he wants to give me 2 months to get my blood sugar under control with diet, exercise, and weight loss (I am about 60 lbs. overweight) before putting me on oral medication.."
A: No, I haven't read that particular book but I suspect it describes a low carbohydrate, high protein and fat diet as a way to cut cravings and decrease insulin resistance. This concept has been around for a long time, and it has returned as a hot topic that is highly controversial.
The sometimes rapid weight loss from such a diet is a result of an unhealthy loss of water and muscle tissue. In reality, most people lose weight on these diets because they are eating fewer calories than usual. Side effects include dehydration, constipation, fatigue, nausea, low blood pressure, and increased work for the kidneys. When one increases protein, inevitably fat intake increases as well, which isn't good for the heart. As with most restricted diets, once you return to your normal way of eating, the weight likely goes back up.
There are some indications for people with high triglycerides that substituting unsaturated fat (olive oil, nuts) for some of the carbohydrates may prove helpful. But most important is calorie control and exercise, rather than carbohydrate restriction, for controlling weight. In fact, studies have shown that just a 5-10% decrease in body weight can have a significant impact on diabetes control and reduction in insulin resistance.
Finally, the American Diabetes Association's Nutrition Recommendations are based on solid, evidence-based medicine, and so far, the research has supported a more balanced carbohydrate meal plan. Most important, if you have not seen a registered dietitian, I urge you to make an appointment to obtain an individualized meal plan that will help you control your diabetes. Please ask your physician to refer you to a registered dietitian who is also a certified diabetes educator, if possible.
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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