Spotlight on Diabesity

The Lowdown

There are 2.8 million people in the UK diagnosed with diabetes and an estimated 850,000 people who have the condition but don’t know it. What’s worrying experts most is that Type 2 diabetes – more commonly associated with older people – has risen sharply in both young adults and children. We may be facing a “diabesity” epidemic – so-called due to its link with obesity.

The Nitty-Gritty

In his new book, Say No To Diabetes, nutritionist Patrick Holford controversially explores the possibility of both preventing and reversing Type 2 diabetes through diet alone. He argues that standard medical recommendations for those with Type 2 diabetes – eat carbohydrates with each meal and cut down on fat – can cause spikes in blood-sugar levels, further exacerbating the underlying blood-sugar problems that relate to diabetes. He believes more focus should be placed on a low-GL (glycemic load) diet to help stabilize blood sugar levels, combined with supplements.

Holford’s critics say his diet advice is just common sense, conceding that, combined with a healthy lifestyle, it will have some effect. However, they argue that, by the time Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed, patients are often already displaying complications associated with the disease which can’t be reversed, so medication is an ongoing equipment.

Top Tip

Holfod advocates taking chromium supplements, as studies indicate they decrease insulin levels and improve blood-sugar metabolism in those with Type 2 diabetes, as well as the obese. However, the jury’s still out.