Diet change 'could mean people with diabetes can stop taking medication'

Get the latest Daily Record breaking news on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info

Join us on WhatsApp

A new study suggests that a low-carb diet might just be the key for some type 2 diabetes patients to get off medication. Research by US scientists indicates that reduced carbohydrate intake could bolster beta-cell function in individuals with the widespread malady, which impacts nearly 7% of all people globally.

Beta-cells, those insulin-producing powerhouses within the pancreas, are essential in managing blood glucose levels. Typically manifesting in those over 45, type 2 diabetes is, however, increasingly diagnosed in the younger population too, as reported by The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism's recent online publication.

With many individuals experiencing compromised beta-cell performance due to dietary choices heavy in carbs, medics attribute this cellular dysfunction combined with insulin resistance to the onset and escalation of type 2 diabetes.

Lead researcher Professor Barbara Gower from the University of Alabama points out: "This study shows people with type 2 diabetes on a low-carbohydrate diet can recover their beta-cells, an outcome that cannot be achieved with medication. People with mild type 2 diabetes who reduce their carbohydrate intake may be able to discontinue medication and enjoy eating meals and snacks that are higher in protein and meet their energy needs."

The research squad scrutinised the health of 57 adults managing type 2 diabetes—split evenly with half consuming a low-carb diet and the other on a high-carb alternative—for analysis. Their beta-cell operation and insulin secretion data was recorded both initially and after a rigorous 12-week period, during which their meals were predetermined.

Those following the carb-light regime consumed only 9% in carbohydrates complemented by a robust 65% in fat; meanwhile, the haute-carb group dined on a diet comprising 55% carbohydrates contrasted with a mere 20% fat intake. The study noted marked enhancements in both the acute and maximal beta-cell reactions for those trimmed down on carbs—these responses doubled and amplified by 22%, respectively.

Along ethnic lines, Black individuals adhering to the less carb-heavy diet detected a staggering 110% uptick in acute beta-cell reactivity, whereas white participants noticed a 48% upsurge in maximal beta-cell reactivity compared to their high-carbing counterparts.

Adding insight, Prof Gower emphasised: "Further research is needed to determine if a low-carbohydrate diet can restore beta-cell function and lead to remission in people with type 2 diabetes."

Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.