Designed for diabetics, the Dr. Bernstein diet minimizes fluctuations in blood sugar by restricting foods that cause blood sugar spikes, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition." As an added bonus, Dr. Bernstein's diet may also encourage weight loss, although it is not intended solely as a weight loss diet.
History
As a child, Richard K. Bernstein developed diabetes. Despite following the standard low-fat diet recommended for diabetics, Bernstein's condition worsened. As an adult, he began to experiment with different foods and insulin injections, recording his blood sugar levels throughout the day. Gradually, Bernstein's condition stabilized and he tried to inform medical doctors about his diet, but they refused to listen.
Convinced that his diet was beneficial for other diabetics, Bernstein, an engineer, quit his job and went to medical school, becoming a doctor and publishing his book, "Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution: A Complete Guide to Achieving Normal Blood Sugars," in 1997.
Function
Dr. Bernstein's diet stabilizes blood sugar by eliminating foods that digest rapidly and by consuming slow-digesting foods, many of which are high in fat. By eating foods that break down slowly in the stomach, the release of sugar into the blood is gradual and steady. By reducing blood sugar spikes, the diabetic may need less medication, according to the website, Diabetes Explained.
Features
Diabetics eliminate all simple sugars and fast-acting carbs from their diets, including foods that contain starches, such as potatoes and refined grains. The total amount of complex carbohydrates is also limited to avoid blood sugar surges that typically occur after eating. Diabetics develop their own diet plan based upon frequent blood sugar testing and record keeping.
Potential Benefits
Stabilizing blood sugar levels may reduce the risk of developing complications from diabetes, such as vision disorders, kidney disease, blood pressure and heart disease, according to Diet.com.
Concerns
Clinical studies confirming the benefits of Dr. Bernstein's diet are lacking. Dieters may experience cravings for sweets, and they must test their blood sugar levels up to eight times per day during the initial phase of the diet. Although the "Gale Encyclopedia" reports that Dr. Bernstein's diet is probably safe for most individuals, diabetics should consult their own doctors before making any major changes to their diets.
References
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition"; Jacqueline L. Longe, 2008
- Diabetes Explained: Dr. Bernstein's Diabetic Solution
- Diet.com: Bernstein Diet
Member Comments