The connection between diabetes and nutrition has been well-established. And, while type 1 diabetes depends on genetic and environmental factors, the main cause for type 2 diabetes is a bad diet. Consequently, the best way to manage type 2 diabetes is by regulating your diet. Reducing the intake of carbohydrates, while increasing the intake of fiber and healthy fats is a way to go. However, recent studies show that a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) might be able to reverse type 2 diabetes.
So, what is the connection between fasting and diabetes?
Low-Calorie Diet Gives Results
Research shows that a very low-calorie diet might be a good way to reverse type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that an adequate weight-loss program, accompanied by a strict nutrition regime, showed a 40% remission of type 2 diabetes in only six months.
In addition to drug-free diabetes remission, this diet also proved to be effective for weight loss, which can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
How Does It Work?
Although most studies agree that VLCDs can help reverse type 2 diabetes, scientists are still not sure how the link between fasting and diabetes works. A Yale study shows that this diet affects the liver’s response to insulin, which results in the lowering of blood sugar levels.
Another study yields similar results, showing that intermittent fasting may be beneficial against type 2 diabetes. The researchers put mice on a 4-day fasting mimicking diet and found that it motivated their pancreatic cells to restore insulin production. This effect was visible in both mice with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Final Word
As you can see, there is a strong connection between fasting and diabetes. However, before you decide to start one of many fasting diets, consult your doctor. He or she will probably offer to monitor the effects of this diet every couple of weeks since fasting has many side effects like diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and constipation.
