When Dr. Diana Schwarzbein's concern grew that her type 2 diabetic patients sustaining a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet were having trouble regulating blood sugar and losing weight, she developed a new diet for her patients. Schwarzbein wrote "The Schwarzbein Principle," an eating plan that addresses the connection between carbohydrates and insulin. This eating plan is intended to help people lose weight, improve general health and treat or prevent type 2 diabetes. Consult your physician before you make any changes to your diet.
The Schwarzbein Principle has two stages -- healing and maintenance -- as well as five main aspects, including nutrition, stress management, exercise, eliminating stimulants and other drugs, and hormone replacement therapy. Because this diet takes longer for results to become apparent than some other diets, dieters should be aware of the possibility of gaining weight while starting out.
Phase One
During the first phase of the diet, you eat mostly protein, along with healthy fats and an unlimited amount of non-starchy vegetables. Refined carbohydrates such as bread and pasta are not allowed in this phase of the diet. During this stage, dieters also become familiar with principles including never skipping another meal, drinking plenty of water and eliminating stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol.
Phase 2
During the second phase of the diet, you can begin adding carbohydrates other than vegetables back into your diet by experimenting with the amount of carbs you can eat without experiencing weight gain or other adverse health affects, such as elevated blood sugar. If you are physically active, for example, you should eat more carbohydrates than someone who is less physically active.
Diet Foods
During the first phase of the diet, meat, seafood and eggs are the principle sources of protein, while non-starchy vegetables are the main source of carbohydrates. Butter and cream also are allowed. During the second phase of the diet, you can begin eating more fruit, low-fat dairy products and whole grains. Meals can include tuna, flank steak, avocados, nut butters and olive oil.
Supplements and Hormone Replacement
In addition to changing the foods you eat and the drinks you consume, Schwarzbein also recommends dietary supplements and hormone replacement, depending on your personal needs. While there are many low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets available, this diet may be suitable for people who suffer from type 2 diabetes or hormonal imbalances. However, it is vital that you consult your physician before embarking on this or any other diet plan, especially if you have diabetes.
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