The ketogenic (keto) diet is high in fat and low in carbs, potentially changing the way your body stores and uses energy, which eases diabetes symptoms. With keto, your body converts fat, instead of sugar, into energy. It was created in 1924 as a treatment for epilepsy, but the effects of this diet are also being studied for type 2 diabetes.
Keto may improve blood glucose (sugar) levels while reducing the need for insulin, but the diet does come with risks. Make sure you discuss it with your doctor before making any drastic dietary changes.
“High-fat” and Keto
People with type 2 diabetes are usually overweight, so a high-fat diet may seem unhelpful.
The goal is to have the body use fat for energy instead of carbohydrates or glucose. With this diet, you get most of your energy from fat, with very little of it coming from carbohydrates.
Heart-healthy fats are important to sustain overall health. Some healthy foods you can eat in this diet include:
- eggs
- fish like salmon
- cottage cheese
- avocados
- olives and olive oil
- nuts and nut butter
- Assorted seeds
Blood glucose
Keto has the ability to decrease blood glucose levels. Managing carbohydrate intake is recommended for people with type 2 diabetes since carbohydrates turn to sugar and can cause blood sugar spikes. Switching to fat helps some people experience reduced blood sugar.
Possible dangers
Changing your body’s primary energy source to fat causes an increase in ketones in your blood. This is “dietary ketosis,” different from ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous condition
You may be at risk for developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is most prevalent in type 1 diabetes. If you’re on keto, test your blood sugar levels regularly.
If you think you’re experiencing the symptoms of DKA, see your doctor immediately.
Some warning signs of DKA include:
- Constant high blood sugar
- A dry mouth
- frequent urination
- nausea
- fruit-like breath
- breathing difficulties
Keto may give people with type 2 diabetes hope. Not only do many people feel better with fewer diabetic symptoms, but they may also be less far dependent on medications.
Not everyone has success on this diet, though. Some may find the restrictions too difficult to commit to. Discuss keto with your doctor before making any decisions. This diet may throw off your blood sugar levels, causing more issues, especially if you’re already on medications for diabetes.