It’s all well and good having evidence and research supporting a low-carb approach to type 2 diabetes, but does it actually work in real life?
We asked our members to share their results following the Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program, and we were blown away by the incredible outcomes and health benefits that closely followed the latest science.
Thousands of our members reported the benefits of a simpler way of eating, including improved HbA1c, fewer medications, weight loss and better sleep, happiness and energy.
Be prepared to be inspired!
Improved HbA1c
Science says: Your average blood glucose, called an HbA1c, is used to identify type 2 diabetes; a level above 6.5% indicates type 2 diabetes. The latest evidence suggests that more than half of people who switch to low carb can lower their HbA1c levels to non-diabetes range, with many achieving complete remission from type 2 diabetes.
Defeat Diabetes members say: 85% of members have improved their HbA1c levels. Even better, 2 out of 3 members have brought their HbA1c down from the type 2 diabetes range to non-diabetes levels (less than 6.5%).
“I’m amazed at how quickly my blood glucose levels dropped. And the high level of energy I am now enjoying,” reported New Zealand member Naomi E.
Long-term benefits
Science says: A common myth is that the results of a low carb approach aren’t sustainable. However, the latest scientific research shows better weight and blood glucose management in those following a low carb diet than a high carb diet. Another study revealed the long-term benefits of using multiple clinical markers of diabetes and heart health and reduced medications after two years of a low carb approach.
Defeat Diabetes members say: 95% of those following the Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program for two years or more reported sustained improvements in their blood glucose levels.
Rachel, 52, emphasised the sustainability of ditching carbs: “It's not a program but a way of life, which has given me back my life. Everyone should be doing this.”
Less medication
Science says: Reducing reliance on medication is a significant win for many people with type 2 diabetes. A recent Dutch study found that half of the participants could reduce their glucose-lowering medicines, and 15% could stop medication completely. Almost all participants had a “significantly reduced” HbA1c at the end of the 6-month study.
Defeat Diabetes members say: 60% of Defeat Diabetes members were able to stop or reduce their insulin medication under their GP’s supervision while following the Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program. Additionally, one-quarter of those taking any form of medication for type 2 diabetes were able to reduce or stop their medications entirely.
Jeffrey I. is one of those members: “I’ve halved my Metformin dose and lost 13 kg in three months. It’s working.”
Weight loss
Science says: Getting to a healthy weight plays a crucial role in managing type 2 diabetes. The latest evidence shows that a low carb approach is a more effective way to lose and keep weight off than other diets, including very low calorie and low fat diets.
Waist measurement is another key indicator of metabolic health and a critical predictor of type 2 diabetes remission.
Defeat Diabetes members say: 90% of members reported weight loss after three months on the program. Overall, members reported an average weight loss of 9 kg, and 81% of members could trim their waistlines by an average of 8 cm.
Will V., shared his experience after 12 months following the Defeat Diabetes Program:
“It's made a MASSIVE difference to my life. The change in diet has put my type 2 into remission; I've lost 40 kg and more than halved my medications. Thank you.”
Will is one of many who reported significant weight loss. One-third of members achieved a 10 kg or more reduction.
Better understanding and management
Science says: Improving health literacy among people living with type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions can lead to better health outcomes.
Defeat Diabetes members say: 86% of members reported greater understanding of their condition, and 80% said they had improved their knowledge of sustaining weight loss. An impressive 92% felt more confident about managing their condition with diet alone.
Clare C. said: “I thought I had a good understanding of nutrition - until I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I now fully understand how to reverse the condition with diet alone, thanks to the Defeat Diabetes program.”
Looking ahead
Reflecting on the results, Dr Peter Brukner, founder of Defeat Diabetes, expressed his pride in our members:
“The latest results are so encouraging. Our members' dedication and determination to deepen their understanding of type 2 diabetes and its management is inspiring. Knowing this program has helped improve blood glucose and achieve remission for thousands of people keeps us going.”
The life-changing results are mirrored in our ongoing research study with La Trobe University. Defeat Diabetes has funded a 12-month study to assess the efficacy of the Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program for managing type 2 diabetes. The results of the study will soon be available, so watch this space!
Meanwhile, we’ll leave the last words to our member, Shirley H., who summarised the sentiment shared by many:
"You no longer have to accept that type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease and that there is nothing you can do about it. The most important thing the Defeat Diabetes Low Carb Program gives you is hope."
