Managing diabetes effectively can be a complex journey, as there is no universal solution that fits everyone. While many individuals turn to a combination of medications and a so-called “standard diet,” the truth is that these standards often vary widely. Finding an effective management plan depends on personal factors like metabolism, lifestyle, and individual preferences. A recent case report published in Clinical Nutrition Research illustrates this point through one patient’s remarkable experience.
The case centers on a 58-year-old man who had suffered from type 2 diabetes and hypertension for 20 years. Despite being on various medications and adhering to a diabetic diet, he faced the prospect of insulin therapy and dialysis. His medical history revealed a long battle with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, with his HbA1c consistently above 9–11%, resulting in complications like fatty liver, diabetic eye disease, cataracts, and chronic kidney disease. By January 2024, he was diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) and was advised to begin dialysis, which he refused.
Instead, the medical team recommended a no-carbohydrate carnivore diet in mid-January 2024. This diet allowed him to consume meat, eggs, and animal fats without portion control, all cooked in ghee or butter. He diligently tracked his food intake and monitored his blood sugar and blood pressure daily, even incorporating intermittent fasting when possible.
The results were astonishing. Within months, his fasting blood sugar levels averaged under 100 mg/dL, and his HbA1c dropped from 6.9% to 5.4% by April 2024. His blood pressure normalized, kidney function stabilized, and he was able to discontinue all diabetes and blood pressure medications, achieving remission from both conditions. Unfortunately, imaging later revealed advanced kidney cancer with metastasis, leading to his passing in March 2025, despite aggressive treatment. Remarkably, he maintained stable blood sugar and blood pressure levels up to his last days, all while adhering to the carnivore diet.
The Case Highlights Remarkable Results, Yet Further Research is Essential
This case showcases an extraordinary turnaround for a man who struggled with diabetes for nearly two decades. According to Dr. Rajeev Chowdry, Director of Internal Medicine at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, it emphasizes the drastic metabolic changes that can occur within months of adopting a carnivore diet. Previously reliant on numerous medications and a traditional high-carbohydrate diabetic diet, the patient experienced significant improvements in blood sugar stability and overall health.
According to Dr. Chowdry, “The low carbohydrate levels in the diet help maintain stable blood sugar levels post-meal, reducing the body’s need for insulin and ultimately enhancing insulin sensitivity.” However, he also noted the necessity for larger studies to assess any potential long-term risks associated with such a diet and whether it provides adequate nutrition.
Medical experts consulted
This article incorporates insights from: Dr. Santosh Kumar Agrawal, Director of Internal Medicine at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital Faridabad. These insights discuss the risks of nutrient overload from supplements and highlight the importance of consulting a doctor before pursuing natural alternatives.
In conclusion, this case shows how personalizing dietary strategies can lead to exceptional outcomes in managing diabetes, as evidenced by one man’s experience. While the carnivore diet led to dramatic improvements, further research is vital to ensure its safety and nutritional sufficiency for the broader diabetic population.
