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Is the Atkins Diet Good for Type II Diabetes?

The Atkins diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet that promotes weight loss by stabilizing blood sugar levels. Type II diabetics must monitor their carbohydrate and sugar intake, and this is the driving principle behind the Atkins diet.

  1. Insulin

    • The Atkins diet promotes healthy insulin levels in the blood and counteracts insulin resistance in diabetics. Patients have been able to cease insulin injections by following the Atkins diet.

    Blood Sugar

    • Through protein-based meals and snacks throughout the day, the Atkins diet regulates blood sugar levels and prevents spikes, which can be dangerous to a diabetic.

    Carbohydrates

    • The Atkins diet severely restricts the carbohydrate intake of a diabetic. Carbohydrates can cause negative fluctuations in blood glucose.

    Protein & Fat

    • The Atkins diet consists mainly of animal protein and fat, which increases the risk of kidney and heart disease. Diabetics are already at an increased risk for these diseases.

    Nutrition

    • The Atkins diet restricts consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Cutting back on these vital nutrients can lead to poor nutrition, since these foods provide many vitamins and nutrients essential for diabetics, including vitamin C, niacin and potassium.

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