It would be difficult for anyone who has access to television, radio, reads newspapers or news on the internet not to have seen the mass of news items related to insulin resistant diabetes and the threat this disease represents to modern health care systems. Whilst the statistics used to describe this potential catastrophe are staggering, there is good news for some sufferers because it is possible to reverse insulin resistance naturally.

Pre-diabetic and sufferers of full blown type two diabetes who have followed specific diets and exercise programs have shown considerable success. Pre-diabetic sufferers were able to rectify sugar levels prior to further interventions being necessary whilst confirmed diabetic patients have, in some cases, stopped their medicinal treatment altogether. Prior to continuing with this, perhaps some explanation around this aspect of our body functioning might be useful.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps body cells absorb sugar, in the form of glucose, from the blood to provide energy. Sugars arise from foods that contain carbohydrates are released as glucose into the blood. The function of insulin, released by the pancreas when we eat, is to help the body maintain a healthy level of glucose in circulation by allowing it to pass into the cells. Consequently blood sugar levels are lowered, and the cells receive the energy required for normal body functions.

Diabetes occurs when blood sugars accumulate in the bloodstream. Put simply this means that cells run out of fuel while dangerously high levels of blood sugar course throughout the body with the potential to cause damage to tissues and organs. In type two diabetics this process is complicated further by being overweight and through lack of exercise.

In most cases the dietary changes required are relatively simple. Consult with a qualified health care professional for full details, but in brief it goes like this. Starchy carbohydrates are a no no so cut out all refined and processed foods high in sugar and starch. Start with refined sugar itself, white flour, bread, rice, cereal and potatoes.

Good quality protein like oily fish from cooler seas that contain Omega 3 fats are definitely in. Mackerel, salmon, shellfish, sardines, small halibut and herring are good examples because the combination of good oils reduces inflammation and works to normalize cholesterol levels. Both these factors are known to contribute towards diabetic conditions.

Low glycemic foods tend to not spike blood sugar levels. These include vegetables such as, nuts, seeds, avocados, and coconut. Try and locate a source of organic meat and eggs and consume moderately. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and cabbage are also very beneficial but root vegetable should be avoided. Eat fruits that raise blood glucose levels slowly, such as apples, bananas, grapes, plums, and peaches.

The dietary tips proposed here are really just an outline. A quick internet search will provide many more guidelines as will a health care professional. Vitamin and mineral supplements in the correct dosage will also assist the dietary process. The important thing to remember is that with perseverance, it is usually possible to reverse and control this disease. Oh and remember the regular exercise. Regular means at least three times per week for at least thirty minutes but this is one case where more is better.