On Wed, 24 Jan 2007 11:48:11 -0600, L. Conrad wrote:

> I'm asking this because I have several friends and a brother in law with
> diabetes. My BIL doesn't need insulin as he controls his diabetes with diet
> alone. He's on a really low carb diet and is doing great. He also lost his
> excess weight. No, his cholesterol levels are not out of sight, staying
> under 200. He is in his mid 70s now. But my friends, ages from 50 to 75
> will not eat a low carb diet, one doesn't even seem to realize what foods
> are high in carbs or sugars. One says carbs are necessary for health. The
> research I've done so far says that is not true since humans can make their
> own carbs from protein by splitting off one atom or some such (think Eskimos
> and far north peoples). I learned no one ever suffered a carb deficiency.
> They are unwilling to give up the foods they love such as potatoes, peas,
> bagels, cereals, corn etc.
>
> The questions a
>
> Can a diabetic, already on insulin control their blood-sugar better by
> adopting a very low carb, or near no carb diet?
> Can a diabetic who adopts a low carb diet improve their blood values and
> need LESS insulin?
> Would the need for less insulin be better for their general health?
> Can a diabetic slowly lower their carb levels to see if less insulin is
> needed?

I would refer you to Dr. Richard Bernstein's "Diabetes Solution". He has
been a type 1 diabetic for nearly 60 years and is in excellent health. His
answer to your queries would be 'yes'. He advocates a diet of 30 grams of
cabohydrates daily for insulin users. Please note I am not affiliated with
Dr. B. - I have a copy of his book which I reread from time to time. I
credit his basic approach to helping me gain control.

One point he makes - there are certainly essential proteins; there are
also certain essential fats; there are no essential carbohydrates.

Good luck.


>
> Your replies will be printed and given to them this coming weekend.
>
> Thank you for your time.......