Researchers at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, the University of Toronto and the University of North Caroline have proved that a low-fat, low-sugar diet can be just as effective (and powerful) at controlling and reversing the symptoms of diabetes than just medications alone.

The scientists studied 99 patients with type 2 diabetes, putting some of them on a low-fat, low-sugar vegan diet, and others on the standard American Diabetes Association diet.  After 22 weeks on the diet, 43% of the vegans and 23% on the ADA diet were able to forgo or lower the dosage on their some of their drugs, such as insulin or glucose-control medications. The vegan dieters also lost more weight, 14 pounds on average.

The simple elimination of processed meats from one’s diet can lead to all kinds of health benefits.  Items like bacon, salami and hot dogs have been linked directly to diabetes, stroke and heart attack.

Lead researcher Dr. Neal D. Barnard of the PCRM has said, “The diet appears remarkably effective, and all the side effects are good ones—especially weight loss and lower cholesterol. I hope this study will rekindle interest in using diet changes first, rather than prescription drugs.”

It is very important to remember all 99 participants in the study were given plenty of professional guidance with their dietary restrictions and changes. You should always talk to your doctor or a dietitian before undergoing a serious change in diet, especially if you have diabetes.

How about you? Are you a vegan that has experienced health benefits from your diet?

Photo: GLiving