Expert: Sharon Erdrich - 1/31/2012

Question
QUESTION: Sharon, what do you know about the alkaline diet and the benefits it offers for diabetics?

ANSWER: Hello Sara,
The alkaline diet is one that follows the principles of more fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds and less meat and sugar, grains and refined products, which is a sound dietary practice for everyone to follow.  I assume you are asking in regards to type 2 diabetics, for whom this way of eating is also to be encouraged as emphasising the "alkaline" foods will result in a reduced intake of the foods that lead to weight gain and problems with cholesterol - two of the biggest factors in the risk of complications for diabetics.  
Generally speaking we humans consume far to many of the foods on that "acid" side of the chart, and we really should be consuming more vegetables - especially green ones!

Hope this answers your question.
Sharon


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm actually a Type 1 diabetic, and just passed my one-year mark. I'm going to be trying out the alkaline diet and wanted to get feedback from others.

It's touted as a wonderfully healthy way to stabilize blood sugars.

I already eat much much better than the average person, but even I will have to give up some of my favorite things. But in the interests of my long-term health and happiness, I'm forging ahead.  ;-)

Have you heard what it can do for Type 1's?

Thanks!

Answer
Hello Sara
sorry about the late response.
I think you can do no harm by following the principles of the alkaline food diet.  I guess you already started in the meantime - I'd be very interested to hear how you got on.  Also what you found hardest!!
regards
Sharon