A Discussion on Food Plans

Lately I have been writing about low-carb/high fat eating plans (diets for those that insist). I have to laugh, as this has really brought some unexpected emails. Some are insisting I should be eating very low carb and ketogenic. Others are insisting I should be low carb and high protein. I am laughing because most are a variety of food plans and most are saying this is the plan I need to follow.

What is discouraging is some of the people will not accept other ideas. I am not one of these. That is why I felt I must say and emphasize that 'One-Size-Does-Not-Fit-All'. For those of us with diabetes, we must each find what works for us. That does not mean that you can't take ideas from others and adapt them, but you should develop you own food plan that your meter tells you works for you. If the food plan that you are trying does not make you feel healthy and your energy is dragging, then work on changing it to another food plan.

I generally consume less than 100 grams of carbohydrates per day. I attempt to have about 15 to 20 percent carbs, 30 to 45 percent fat, and 35 to 40 percent protein. Yes, I vary quite a bit, but that is my choice. I have tried other percentages, but the high fat just was not working even with trying it for about three months. Occasionally I only eat about 50 or fewer grams of carbohydrates with higher fat and less protein, but I don't dare do this for several days in a row if I want to keep the bathroom available for my wife. I suspect part of the reason is the removal of my gallbladder almost a year ago.

I respect those that can consume more carbohydrates, but if they are using low fat, or as many do – very low fat, then they tend to start adding weight. I am not impressed with the studies of late that are low-carb, low fat, and high protein. The cardiologists are still promoting low fat, but they have a lot to learn. Most studies are short in duration and meaningless. Hopefully, we will have studies in the future of up to five years or longer that will be of value.

The best suggestion I have is tried and true! Learn to eat to your meter and the goals you establish for yourself. If possible, avoid highly processed foods, and attempt to prepare your own foods.

Read these two articles for further information - article 1, and article 2. I will be blogging more on nutrition in the future.