The scientific evidence shows that low-fat, high-carbohydrate, whole-food diets can help people with diabetes improve blood glucose control. Many studies testing these diets are randomised controlled trials, which are the most reliable type of research.

In one early study, people with diabetes switched from a lower-carbohydrate diet to a high-carbohydrate, high-fibre diet, getting about 70% of their calories from carbohydrates. Fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides all improved. Many participants were even able to reduce or stop insulin or other diabetes medications while keeping their blood glucose stable long-term.

Another study looked at healthy adults who followed a very low-carbohydrate diet for a few days. When they later drank a sugary drink, their bodies handled it less effectively, showing that sharp reductions in carbs and high fat intake can temporarily reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

More recent trials in people with type 2 diabetes have compared low-fat, plant-based diets with standard diabetes dietary advice. People following the low-fat, plant-based diets often had better long-term blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

In summary: Eating a low-fat, whole food plant-based diet, which is naturally high in fibre and carbohydrates, can help many people with diabetes manage their blood glucose, improve cholesterol, and in some cases, reduce or stop diabetes medications—always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.