According to the Mayo Clinic there is no cure for type 2 diabetes; however that has not stopped some groups from suggesting that certain foods may just do that. A healthy diet alongside a regular exercise routine can do wonders in maintaining or preventing type 2 diabetes before it does serious damage. But can food really give diabetics a cure?
The Raw Food Diet
A raw food diet is one where the followers choose to eat only raw, uncooked fruits and vegetables. This special vegan diet is considered very healthy because of its focus on whole foods full of nutrients. Eating fruits and vegetables in their uncooked state contain the most amount of vitamins and antioxidants, claim those who promote this lifestyle.
Some raw foodists feel that this type of diet is the best to help combat many ailments and diseases that people face today, including diabetes.
Evidence of a Diabetic Cure
In 2004 a clinical study was published showing that lifestyle changes such as increased exercise and a healthy diet prevented diabetes in a man who was showing symptoms of having type 2 diabetes. The man was moderately overweight and had registered two high blood sugar tests, usually a strong indicator of diabetes.
The man was placed on an exercise routine and counseled to eat in a more healthful manner. After two months he had lost 16 pounds and was no longer testing positive for high blood sugar levels. To some, this meant that type 2 diabetes could also be cured through weight loss and a healthy diet. One such diet was the raw food diet.
Can You Reverse Diabetes?
Experts still insist that there is no true cure for type 2 diabetes. When a person has type 2 diabetes, their body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or may begin to produce less than is needed. There is no way to truly reverse these effects. However, a person who is beginning to show signs of diabetes can prevent the disease by opting for a healthier lifestyle.
Though there is no cure for type 2 diabetes, any changes that a person can make towards a healthier diet and weight loss will provide positive results. Not everyone agrees that a raw food diet is the best for potential diabetics, yet adding more fruits and vegetables to your daily diet is something that everyone should do.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic Type 2 Diabetes Definition (accessed February 1, 2010)
Clinical Diabetes Case Study: The Prevention of Diabetes Through Diet and Intense Exercise (accessed February 1, 2010)
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