Millions of people worldwide suffer from type 2 diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder. High blood glucose (sugar) levels are characteristic of this condition, which can result in a wide range of health issues. Sugar consumption is one of the most significant risk factors for type 2 diabetes, although there are many other risk factors. Let’s discuss the role that sugar plays in type 2 diabetes and how the keto diet can assist in controlling blood sugar levels.
The Contribution of Sugar to Type 2 Diabetes
Sugar is a type of carbohydrate that can be found in a wide variety of foods, such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. Our bodies convert sugar into glucose, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream after consumption. By allowing glucose to enter our cells, where it is used for energy, the pancreatic hormone called insulin helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
However, this system malfunctions in people with type 2 diabetes. Either the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or the pancreas does not produce enough of it. As a result, blood sugar levels rise as glucose builds up in the bloodstream.
Although sugar is not the only factor that can lead to type 2 diabetes, it is without a doubt one of the most important ones. People who consume a lot of sugar have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who consume less sugar.
The Keto Diet & Managing your Blood Sugar Levels
The keto diet is a high-fat, low-starch diet that has been demonstrated to be powerful in overseeing glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The body is forced to use fat for energy instead of glucose when carbohydrate intake is drastically reduced.
Blood sugar levels drop significantly when the body is in ketosis, or using fat for energy. This is on the grounds that the body is done depending on glucose for energy, and that implies that insulin levels can likewise be decreased.
The ketogenic diet emphasizes protein and healthy fats in addition to reducing carbohydrate intake. This may aid in weight loss by promoting satiety and preventing overeating. Weight loss is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes because it can help lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.
It is impossible to ignore the role that sugar plays in the development of type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar levels can be better managed by avoiding sugar and adhering to a low-carbohydrate diet like the keto diet, which can help reduce the risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes.
Using Sweeteners On the Keto Diet
Luckily, you can use a variety of other sweeteners while following the ketogenic diet and maintaining your blood sugar levels as long as they are low in carbohydrates and do not increase blood sugar levels. The following are some examples of keto-friendly alternatives to sugar:
Stevia: Stevia is a sugar that comes from the leaves of the Stevia plant and has no calories. Because it does not raise blood sugar levels and has a glycemic index of zero, it is a popular option for keto dieters.
Erythritol: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol with almost no calories and a zero glycemic index. Due to its lack of effect on blood sugar levels, it is frequently used in keto recipes.
Monk fruit extract: The monk fruit, also known as luo han guo, is the source of monk fruit extract, a natural sweetener. Since it does not contain any calories and has a glycemic index of zero, it is a good option for people who follow the ketogenic diet.
Xylitol: A sugar alcohol with a lower glycemic index and fewer calories than sugar is xylitol. On the ketogenic diet, it can be used in moderation, but only in small amounts because it can irritate the digestive system in some people.
These sweeteners help to reduce spikes in blood sugar levels, and therefore allow a person to manage their type 2 diabetes while still enjoying the occasional dessert. Through proper planning and recipe implementation, even those who struggle can find ways to live a healthy and regular life.