Aug 04
The Paleo Diet for Diabetics
Studies have shown that the Paleo diet for diabetics can be extremely beneficial, and seeing as how nearly 30 million people in the United States already have diabetes, with even more with pre-diabetes, it’s important to learn steps we can all take to prevent and reduce the prevalence of diabetes. A 2009 study showed that “a Paleolithic diet improved glycemic control and several cardiovascular risk factors compared to a diabetes diet in a cohort of patients with [type 2 diabetes]” (source). As the Paleo lifestyle advocates the consumption of nearly no sugar and carbs, it only makes sense that following a Paleo diet would help people control their blood sugar. The Paleo diet for diabetics also encourages exercise and weight loss, another key factor in reducing the negative health effects of especially type 2 diabetes. It’s estimated that a person only needs to lose 5-10% of their body weight to help lower blood glucose, total cholesterol, and blood pressure levels, making the Paleo diet for diabetics absolutely ideal. At Evolve Paleo Chef, we’ve got lots of options for Paleo snacks that can help improve and make the Paleo diet for diabetics easier.
Type 1 Diabetes
The Paleo diet for diabetics, specifically for those suffering from the un-curable type 1 diabetes, or “Juvenile-Onset,” can help improve the immune system. As an autoimmune disease, type 1 diabetes attacks the immune system and everything must be done to help strengthen it. Type 1 diabetics should avoid antibiotics, which can even be found in the meat from large food lots. The Paleo diet encourages the consumption of local, antibiotic-free meats, like Evolve’s delicious beef jerkies! The Paleo diet in itself also improves the immune system, as it contains a lot of Vitamin D, decreases stress, and improves the quality of sleep.
Type 2 Diabetes
The Paleo diet for diabetics, specifically those suffering with “Adult-Onset,” or type 2 diabetes, can help reduce or eliminate the effects of the disease altogether. Since type 2 diabetes is caused by a poor, sugar-loaded diet, weight loss and cutting sugar and carbs can essentially cure the disease. Type 2 diabetes is completely preventable, and can be avoided if one follows the Paleo diet for diabetics. Clients of Evolve have frequently reported a vast improvement in their blood work and they’ve felt better while cutting back on their medications. If you’re in need of a sweet fix, try some of Evolve Paleo’s Paleo Balls! With flavors like key lime and raspberry lemonade, any sweet tooth will be satisfied.
The research has shown that the Paleo diet for diabetics can be extremely beneficial. Another study has shown that, “[. . .] people with type 2 diabetes who followed a “caveman diet” were able to improve their blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol by significant amounts in just two weeks” (source). To make the Paleo diet for diabetics even easier and better, check out Evolve Paleo Chef’s selection of Paleo foods and snacks, you’ll be glad you did!