Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
I have
type 2 diabetes.
Is it safe for me to do low carbohydrate diets such as Atkins?
Answer
The
American Diabetes Association
issued a Position Statement in September 2004 entitled
Dietary Carbohydrate (Amount and Type) in the Prevention and Management of Diabetes. The
following is excerpted from the Summary bullets in the statement:
Low-carbohydrate diets are not recommended in the management of diabetes. Although dietary carbohydrate is the major contributor to
postprandial
blood glucose
concentration, it is an important source of energy, water-soluble vitamins and minerals, and fiber. Thus, in agreement with the National Academy of Sciences — Food and Nutrition Board, a recommended range of carbohydrate intake is 45% - 65% of total calories. In addition, because the brain and central nervous system have an absolute requirement for glucose as an energy source, restricting carbohydrate to <130grams/day is not recommended.
Most Registered Dietitians/Certified Diabetes Educators would support this. A diet for diabetes is calculated primarily on the basis of carbohydrate control, suited to your individual needs, lifestyle, and medical goals.
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