### Stephanie's Experience with the Keto Diet Stephanie Lofton, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2015, struggled with various diets to manage her weight and blood sugar. She tried the South Beach Diet, calorie counting, and low-fat eating, even considering bariatric surgery. In 2017, she discovered the ketogenic (keto) diet, a high-fat, low-carb plan. While she hasn't lost much weight, her blood sugar levels have significantly improved, reaching the mid-100s mg/dL from previous highs of 600-800 mg/dL. Her A1C levels also dropped from 10.4 to 8.7. ### Pros and Cons of the Keto Diet for Diabetics The keto diet aims to achieve ketosis, where the body burns fat instead of carbs for energy. This diet involves consuming 60-80% of calories from fat, 15-30% from protein, and less than 5-10% from carbs. While it can lead to rapid weight loss, it's not recommended for everyone, especially those with kidney damage or those on certain medications. Dietitians often suggest gradual weight loss for sustainability and recommend supplements to meet nutrient needs. ### Why Stephanie Chose Keto Stephanie found the keto diet liberating as it reduced her hunger. She had tried the American Diabetes Association's carb limit but still gained weight. Inspired by friends' success stories, she switched to keto, replacing carb-heavy snacks with high-fat options. Despite initial challenges, she now feels fuller for longer and doesn't miss high-carb foods. ### Considerations for Starting Keto If you have type 2 diabetes and are considering keto, consult your healthcare provider first. You may need supplements for essential nutrients. Be prepared to give up many carb-rich foods and understand that keto's long-term safety is not yet proven. Stephanie aims to lower her fasting blood sugar below 100 mg/dL and gradually lose weight, hoping to inspire her diabetic family members to adopt healthier eating habits.