“Is a high protein diet advisable for a diabetes patient?”
I have had diabetes for 8 years. I am now going to the gym more often and have been advised to be on a high protein diet. Is it okay for me, considering my diabetes?
4 Answers
Weight loss alone can, in some people, even reverse the diagnosis of diabetes, so diet is of benefit as can lessening sugar load.
Henny Sekhukhune
General Practitioner
Diabetes increases protein breakdown and with more exercise you are going to experience even more protein breakdown. It is therefore a good idea to increase protein intake in your diet.
Mun Li Pang
General Practitioner
It will not hurt to be on a high-protein, low-carb diet such as diets like Atkins to help improve weight loss, which results in better sugar control for type 2 diabetics. Try to eat as much unprocessed, whole foods that are low GI. Don't fall for gimmicks like low-fat foods as they'll usually contain more sugars, and right fats like virgin coconut oil are actually heart protective. Try to include some cinnamon in your diet, as it naturally helps in regulating sugars.
High protein is recommended unless you have advanced kidney disease. Low carbohydrates, avoid processed foods, fresh vegetables, and no sugar. Fat really is not the issue. The medical profession has been led astray on fats. The body needs healthy natural fats like coconut oil, avocados, and eggs. No toast. Use olive oil and apple cider vinegar on salads. Half your meal should be vegetables. Raw is better, as cooking destroys a lot of nutrients.
