October 23, 2014

Caroline’s Story: Overcoming Type 1 Diabetes with Real Food

Today, Caroline Potter from Colorful Eats, has an amazing story of recovery for you. She’s worked with the same nutritionist that I have these last few years, and has been able to treat Type 1 diabetes with a nutrient-dense diet and natural supplements. It’s another encouraging story of how food can play a significant role in our fight against disease!

Treating Diabetes with Real Food
Life in your 20s seems pretty grand. You feel powerful, youthful and energized. Dreams seem within your reach and challenges seem conquerable. Then out of the blue, college bliss turns into doctors offices and waiting rooms. Countless tests of all forms, vague results and no answers as to what was wrong with me. As I came home from college that winter for Christmas break, I laid on the couch for most of my vacation. I was constantly starving, eating everything in sight but quickly loosing weight.

Finally, one day while out to dinner with my family, I broke down in tears because my mouth was so dry, I could barely talk. I was experiencing dry mouth, one of the major symptoms of diabetes.

Diabetes? I was 20, a seemingly healthy young girl, who grew up in a home where my mother fed us all organic food.

I was the one in school with her carrot sticks and tuna salad sandwiches. I never drank soda or ate Oreos, so the thought of diabetes was never even on my radar. Barely able to walk up a flight of stairs, I checked myself into the ER to discover my blood sugar levels were in a diabetic coma range. Later the next morning, the doctor diagnosed me with type 1 diabetes. I was scared, hopeless and confused. The days that followed were difficult to say the least. I still felt sick all the time, gained over 20 pounds in 2 weeks and felt terribly alone. My legs turned black and blue from giving myself insulin shots and my sugar levels were anything but stable.

I’ve never been one to give up or take no for an answer. Refusing to be another statistic in the diabetic charts, I took matters into my own hands.

I researched and read everything I could — from nutrition books to scientific studies. I discovered that the more carbohydrates I consumed, the more insulin I would need. So I cut out all sugars, grains, gluten and most carbohydrates. For a while I ate strictly fats, proteins and leafy vegetables.

I discovered that fats—from pastured butter, steak and eggs—which just so happened to be some of my favorite foods were actually good for me! With the help of a nutritionist, some natural supplements and endless encouragement from my family, I was slowly able to completely wean myself off insulin and remain insulin-free for over 2 1/2 years!

My Recent Health Journey
This past summer was difficult to say the least. I found myself laying in a hospital bed feeling my world crashing down around me. After over two and a half years of being insulin-free, I was in the ICU in a diabetic autoimmune flare up—barely able to walk, talk or open my eyes. After talking with countless doctors, who said they’d never heard of anyone managing diabetes with diet and nutrition, they believed that two bouts of the flu and many high stress situations this summer caused the flare-up.

I must admit having to go back on insulin was discouraging. I felt like I’d lost the fight. But right now this insulin, even the smallest amount, is what my body needs and I am beyond thankful for the amazing doctors and nurses that tended to me in the hospital.

Choosing Joy
When I was first diagnosed back in college, the months that followed were dark and difficult and I didn’t want to share what was happening. If my time in the hospital taught me anything, it taught me to share my story instead of being embarrassed about my condition.

There are so many people who suffer from diabetes and don’t know how much their diet and daily meals affect them.

I know that there is no cure for this disease, but I do believe that eating a real food diet and proper nutrition can greatly influence my daily life—and that is something I will never stop believing in. Thankfully, by continuing to eat a strict grain-free, gluten-free and refined sugar free diet, I have already able to lower my insulin need by over half – a success I find my strength!

When I share my story, I often say I’m thankful for diabetes. I know that sounds so strange, but in a sense I’m thankful for this disease. It’s given me a platform for helping others and developed passions that I never thought would exist such as photography and cooking. I became a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) and discovered a love for creating grain and refined sugar-free recipes.

I’m thankful I didn’t let my circumstances or health condition define me, but rather used it to develop new passions and encourage others to a joyful side of healthy eating and nutrition.

I’ve learned that choosing joy despite life’s circumstances isn’t always the easiest choice, but it sure is the best choice! I’ll leave you with a peek of some of my favorite grain-free recipes you can find on my blog, Colorful Eats. I love to recreate my favorite foods using grain free ingredients, such as this fall cheese platter or my grain & nut free sandwich bread.

Here are some of my favorites:
Grain & Nut Free Sandwich Bread
Allergy Friendly, Paleo Spiced Breakfast Cookies
Italian Sausage Ragu with Cappellos Fettuccine
Paleo Pumpkin French Toast
Fall Cheese Platter
Shredded Pork Tacos with Pear Salsa

I hope my story inspires you and you enjoy these delicious recipes!

Bio:

Caroline’s healthy journey inspired her to start her blog Colorful Eats, become an NTP and develop a passion for photography and cooking. Caroline lives in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii where her husband is stationed in the US Navy. They love to cook together and take their dog Liberty to the beach. She says a good day is when their house smells of melting butter, smoked ribs and homemade chocolate chip cookies!

Disclaimer: This information is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your condition.

UPDATE: I have closed comments on this post because many writing in are not displaying kindness or respect. Caroline clearly states there isn’t a cure and was sharing her personal story as documented by her doctors, nurses and nutritionist. I am proud of Caroline for sharing her story in hopes to encouragement. Many have asked about how a child can develop a disease at a young age – to read more on this topic I recommend the book, Deep Nutrition, by Dr. Cate Shanahan.

You may also enjoy these posts

Morning Glory Muffins (Grain-Free, Paleo)

Dairy-Free Green Goddess Dressing (Paleo)

Triple Chocolate Brownie Cookies (Grain-Free)

73 Comments

Kristin
October 23, 2014 at 10:31 am
Do you eat any fruit?
Virginia
October 23, 2014 at 1:20 pm
This is ridiculous. Don't you think that if this were in fact true for ANY person with type 1 diabetes, every diabetic would be doing this? This is perhaps a miracle for this one person, but it is most definitely a lie to be telling people this is the way to get rid of type 1 diabetes. Its just wrong.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 23, 2014 at 1:52 pm
  I think if more doctors were looking into holistic methods to beat disease, then maybe more would know about this kind of alternative treatment. Sadly, medical doctors mainly use FDA-approved medicines and not other alternative methods. Caroline is telling the truth. I heard my nutritionist lecture on Carloline's case last year at a conference. It's truly an incredible story. I hope others can be encouraged and will also start looking at holistic therapies as something to use alongside conventional medicine.
- Caroline Potter
  October 23, 2014 at 4:52 pm
  Hi Virginia, I am just sharing my story in how diet and nutrition played a huge factor in helping control my disease and the symptoms. Yes, I always say that type 1 has no cure, but I think that looking for alternative ways to help the situation and medicine need is important :)
- Kim Schuette
  October 23, 2014 at 6:06 pm
  Hi Virginia,Unfortunately in the conventional, allopathic medical world there is virtually no discussion about the role nutrition plays on one's blood glucose level. In fact, the American Diabetes Association still encourages diabetics to eat a high carbohydrate, low fat diet. This is the very diet that increases blood glucose and taxes the pancreas. Go figure. The average medical doctor in the U.S. takes a maximum of one class in nutrition and the curriculum for this class is provided by commercial interests from the food industry.In addition to Caroline Potter, I have seen other type I diabetics be able to significantly lower their insulin levels after they adopted a high fat, low carbohydrate diet, eliminating all refined carbohydrates. My staff at Biodynamic Wellness and I reviewed Caroline's glucose and hemoglobin A1c test results regularly during the 2 1/2 years that she was off insulin. Her average glucose was 85 (ideal level) and her hemoglobin A1c typically measured 5.0-5.2, well within the normal range.I have also witnessed Caroline be able to safely and gradually lower her insulin under her physicians guidance (Any adjustments to medically prescribed drugs should be supervised by the prescribing doctor.). I am so proud of Caroline's tenacity and commitment to take responsibility for her health. She has done a tremendous job addressing the immune challenges that she and her doctor feel pushed her back into a compromised immune state. It is a joy working with such a determined young woman. Caroline continues to inspire others and make her difficult situation into an opportunity for growth.The scientific community is understanding more and more about the benefits of a traditional diet like that of our ancestors 300 years ago. I encourage you to learn about Dr. Weston A. Price and his findings from his ten year study of indigenous people around the world consuming completely unrefined diets high in nutrient-dense fats. Go to http://www.westonaprice.org to learn more.I wish you well,Kim Schuette, CN, CGP Biodynamic Wellness
- maria
  October 23, 2014 at 7:10 pm
  I eat similar to you! I read about this working for parents with kids with type 1, so I gave it a shot. I've had type 1 for 30 years now.It has not gotten me off insulin by any means, but it has kept me off the rollercoaster with stable normal bg levels :) I have read other reports of parents getting their kids off insulin this way. I wonder if it works for you and them b/c you are so newly diagnosed and still have some pancreatic function left?
Stacey Simms
October 23, 2014 at 1:37 pm
You really should change the headline of this story. While I applaud the efforts made here to manage health by eating well and mindfully, there is no way to "Overcome type 1 diabetes with real food." This headline is misleading and could be dangerous. Thank you for sharing your story and encouraging people to think about what we eat. However, people with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin.. or they will die.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 23, 2014 at 1:49 pm
  I'm not sure how "overcoming" is misleading. The "ing" makes the word a present participle which indicates it's ongoing. She did overcome the disease, was off of insulin for 2 1/2 years and then was honest in saying that she had a relapse this summer, but has already been able to reduce the small dose of insulin she was put back on. I think "overcoming" is a good way to describe what has happened and is currently happening with her health.
  - Laura Ricci
    October 23, 2014 at 2:01 pm
    You never OVERCOME Type 1 diabetes. You learn to manage it. This information is all a ploy to get people to purchase her products.
    - Deliciously Organic
      October 23, 2014 at 2:33 pm
      We aren't selling any products. I understand you believe she is lying, but your mean-spirited comments are not coming from a place of skepticism or curiosity, but of anger. If you choose not to believe her, that is your choice. If you'd like to have a respectful discussion, then we are all ears.
      - Jan-Mom of 17 yr old Type 1 (dx'd at age 5 1/2)
        October 23, 2014 at 6:46 pm
        Deliciously Organic, Obviously you are not a TYPE 1 DIABETIC, nor are you raising a TYPE 1 DIABETIC, nor are you an ENDOCRINOLOGIST. You do not know what you are talking about. There IS NO 'alternative treatment' for Type 1 diabetes. ALL Type 1 diabetics NEED insulin in order to SURVIVE. Your nutritionist is not an ENDOCRINOLOGIST either. Nutrition can HELP people have better control over their blood sugars, it will NEVER eliminate the need for insulin. Shame on you and shame on Caroline. You and Caroline are both making a profit with this misinformation ... money you both receive by writing your blogs, and money you make if people purchase products through your blog ... you say so yourself."Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, your costs will be the same but Deliciously Organic will receive a small commission. This helps cover some of the costs for this site. We appreciate your support!"
        Deliciously Organic
        October 24, 2014 at 5:10 am
        Caroline is simply sharing her story and her real life experience documented by her doctor, her attending nurses, and her nutritionist. I am proud of her for having the courage to share her story to bring encouragement.The FTC requires that all blogs put that statement at the bottom of each post. There is not a single affiliate link in this post.
  - Virginia
    October 23, 2014 at 2:09 pm
    Overcoming is not the word to use. My son was diagnosed in July and started at more slow acting insulin than he is currently on. It has been reduced as he is still in the honeymoon phase, which can last God knows how long. Yes, I want a pray for a cure, but I do not say he is overcoming it. Until there is an actual cure...he will be on insulin, whether it be a small or large amount. Like I said, now he is down to little, but a some point, it will go up again. When his pancreas decides to totally stop producing its own insulin. It's called "honeymoon" not "overcoming."
- Caroline Potter
  October 23, 2014 at 5:00 pm
  Stacey, Sorry if my word choice offended you. My only desire in sharing my story is to inspire others in a positive way and encourage people to a healthier lifestyle!
Deb T.
October 23, 2014 at 1:41 pm
the article headline reads that she 'completely weened herself off insulin' , but the story states that she has reduced her insulin by half. People really hate to be 'baited' into reading with false headlines. The article itself has merit, I too am a type 1 and I also eat LCHF and take 1/2 the amount of insulin as most type 1's...but all this story proved to do was make me angry that the headline was a lie. Bad performance!! Sad...as I think otherwise the article could have helped people....but instead it was made a mockery.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 23, 2014 at 1:46 pm
  She did completely wean herself off insulin and was insulin-free for 2 1/2 years. That's a huge feat in and of itself. She then is honest and tells of her relapse this summer and how she's already been able to reduce the small amount of insulin she needed to go back on. The title says "overcoming" which is a great way to describe what has happened to her.
  - Amanda
    October 23, 2014 at 3:16 pm
    My son was off insulin for 2+ years as well... he was a 2 year old, and honeymooning. Perhaps while "researching" the writer should have looked into that as well. Some people have a long, strong honeymoon period, and some don't, but it's not anything you do yourself, certainly not any "feat". My toddler didn't wean himself off of insulin, his body did that. And when that period of time was over, he restarted, slowly, meeting his needs. This is no diet miracle, this is how it works, regardless of what you're eating. (I can assure you my 2 year old wasn't on a grain-free or paleo diet.)
    - Jennifer
      October 23, 2014 at 5:41 pm
      Yes! Most likely this was a honeymoon and she will need insulin from now on for the rest of her life. It is possible to eat so clean that you need very little insulin but some insulin will always be needed for a type 1. My son was dx right in the middle of puberty, no honeymoon for him.
- Caroline Potter
  October 23, 2014 at 4:55 pm
  Hi Deb, So sorry if my story or word choice offended you however my story is only shared from my heart as a way to inspire others that diet and nutrition can help manage symptoms. Yes, type 1 cannot be cured and I am very clear about that. My only hope is to encourage people that what you eat plays a huge role in managing an auto-immune disease, something that the hospital and doctors were amazed to hear and said that my story was very inspiring!
Stacey Simms
October 23, 2014 at 2:03 pm
Sorry, but overcoming means to conquer, defeat or prevail over. The author is certainly doing a wonderful job of managing her diabetes (now) but she is using insulin to do so. The headline is absolutely misleading. Also, you can't "wean yourself off insulin" if you are type 1. You can use less by eating carefully and that's wonderful.
- Laura Ricci
  October 23, 2014 at 2:07 pm
  Totally agree and I challenge the blogger here to post every single post that is coming your way in defense of Type one diabetics that don't believe much of what is being said here. If you don't post people's comments, then you're ignorant about the fact that this information is very damaging to the public.
  - Deliciously Organic
    October 23, 2014 at 2:39 pm
    I am not ignorant, but I don't tolerate disrespectful comments. I know her story to be true. If you choose to call her a lair, that is your choice, but I won't publish mean and hurtful comments.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 23, 2014 at 4:42 pm
  The word is in the present tense, so I feel it is a valid word to describe her story.
Laura Ricci
October 23, 2014 at 2:12 pm
Saving Luke - Luke and Jedi - Fighting Type 1 Diabetes Together I hear the phrase "getting off insulin" a lot, like insulin is a bad thing, and I have a few things to say.#1 Without insulin we would all die. #2 If your body does not make any insulin you will need injected insulin to live. #3 Injected Insulin is life support for anyone with Type 1 diabetes. #4 If a type 1 diabetic were to stop taking insulin they would end up very sick, in the hospital, in DKA and they would die. #5 Insulin is needed for everything we eat with carbs not just sugar #6 Insulin is needed to combat hormones, stress, illness even when you aren't eating #7 A person with T1D make virtually NO insulin. #8 There is no "getting off insulin" until there is a cure.The fact that people see insulin as a negative thing, like something we just casually give or take to get out of exercising or dieting is very very frustrating. Before the discovery of insulin Type 1 diabetes was a death sentence, and in many countries where insulin is hard to get, it still is. We need awareness, we need education, and we need a cure.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 23, 2014 at 4:43 pm
  We are not stating that "insulin is bad". Caroline was simply sharing her story to encourage others.
  - Caroline Potter
    October 23, 2014 at 5:03 pm
    Laura! You are correct, insulin is a wonderful thing and I like in this post, I say I am beyond thankful for the wonderful doctors that took care of me. However, I chose to not simply accept the fact that I would need insulin shots all the time and decided to give diet and nutrition a try. My only desire is to inspire people to a positive and healthy lifestyle :)
Jennifer
October 23, 2014 at 3:08 pm
Would you suggest to a parent, with an exclusively breastfed, 10 month old baby with Type 1 diabetes, that they should change his diet and wean him off insulin?
- Laura Ricci
  October 23, 2014 at 6:03 pm
  I agree. I totally agree with Jennifer. Let's see the reply now.
- Kim Schuette
  October 23, 2014 at 6:39 pm
  Jennifer,No one associated with this story is going to suggest that a mother with a type I infant wean her baby off insulin. This is not what Caroline is saying at all. She is simply sharing her story and her real life experience documented by her doctor, her attending nurses, and myself as her nutritionist. Your baby should absolutely be under the supervision of a qualified physician and you should keep your baby on insulin.On the other hand, I don't think anyone would argue that lowering refined carbohydrates lowers one's need for higher levels of insulin. Sugar is very disruptive to the immune system as well as the endocrine system. The point here is that minimizing sugar and refined carbohydrates (pasta, bread, pastries, muffins, boxed cereals, etc.) encourages the body to optimize its function. There is a growing number of documented cases of autoimmune disorders showing indication of the immune system arresting its attack on the particular tissue be it the thyroid, the pancreas, the skin, muscles, etc. We are always learning and hopefully growing towards a better understanding of how we can encourage the body towards regeneration and healing.No claims are being made other than Caroline's real life well-documented experience. Both Caroline and Carrie desire to do only one thing and that is to inspire others to return to a real food diet. Our bodies have been fearfully and wonderfully made. We should all be filled with hope when anyone finds improvement in their health whether it be due to medical advancements, dietary shifts, or miracles. Much is possible.Wishing you and your son well,Kim Schuette, CN, CGP Biodynamic Wellness
Laura
October 23, 2014 at 4:04 pm
i think the bigger message (pushing past the sensationalizing headline) is that the best way to manage type 1 diabetes is by eating real food like veggies, meat, eggs, butter, nuts, cheese, etc... And staying far far away from the processed crap and the large amounts of carbohydrates that every nutritionist I've ever seen has tried to push on me. It was only when I stopped listening to the ADA-following nutritionists and starting listening to my own intuition that I finally got a handle over type one (overcoming the mental burden for sure). I'm sure that if I had done this while still honeymooning, I could have also come off insulin for a while. (Read Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution--he talks about this). Like this young woman, switching to a grain-free, high fat diet halved my insulin needs, nearly eliminated low blood sugars, not to mention that I have performed at my personal best in both a half marathon and century bike ride.
- Caroline Potter
  October 23, 2014 at 4:57 pm
  Thank you Laura for your kind words!!! I completely agree with everything you said and I simply want to share my story in hopes to inspire others how diet and nutrition clearly impacts auto-immune diseases and just life in general!
- maria
  October 23, 2014 at 7:23 pm
  Dr. Bernstein (Diabetes Solution) book has changed my life!
Robyn
October 23, 2014 at 4:23 pm
So basically she was in the honeymoon phase for 2.5 years while she supposedly managed everything with diet. Then after 2.5 years she had a "flare" which she shoud have said she was in DKA - which is incredibly dangerous for a Type 1 diabetic and could have killed her. Therefore, she should have never gone off insulin in the 1st place. She is playing with her life just to not take insulin. There is nothing wrong with taking insulin. It doesn't hurt you - it helps you.
Faith
October 23, 2014 at 4:47 pm
Thanks for posting this, Carrie & Caroline! I appreciate it, & it is very encouraging for someone like me who struggles with insulin resistance from P.C.O.S.!!!
- Caroline Potter
  October 23, 2014 at 4:58 pm
  Thank you Faith! Its always hard to share my story as its so personal but I hope it inspires people to a healthier lifestyle and give hope that food and nutrition do help!
- Jan-Mom of 17 yr old Type 1 (dx'd at age 5 1/2)
  October 23, 2014 at 6:57 pm
  Insulin resistance is NOT the same as TYPE 1 DIABETES. This article is AWESOME for Type TWO diabetics, but is not accurate at all for Type ONE diabetics.
- maria
  October 23, 2014 at 7:25 pm
  Faith, also remember, that with PCOS, even if your blood sugar numbers are perfect, you still need to take the metformin to have regular menstral cycles. But this diet will really make you feel better. :)
  - Faith
    October 24, 2014 at 1:01 pm
    Thanks, Maria :)
Jennifer
October 23, 2014 at 5:36 pm
My son has type 1 diabetes. I strongly believe you were misdiagnosed as t1d. If you are not taking insulin to control your blood sugar at all, then your body is making insulin through it's beta cells. If your body is making insulin from your beta cells, then you are NOT TYPE 1! Type 1 Diabetics have no way of making insulin because the white blood cells in the body KILLED the beta cells. Since the beta cells are DEAD, they will not miraculously start making insulin again. It isn't uncommon for people to be misdiagnosed as t1ds. If they were young, it's hard for doctors to determine. Some kids have t2 and are not overweight or inactive. It could be hereditary and young active people could get it. If you were truly t1d, then your beta cells should be dead, therefore your blood sugar should be not able to get into your cells without insulin. You cannot magically make a diet that will make this happen. Only insulin can unlock your cells so the glucose can enter. Insulin is a needed hormone in every ones body. You either make it or inject it, otherwise you die.
- Jennifer
  October 23, 2014 at 6:12 pm
  In addition to my comment above. If you truly are a t1d, then you were most likely in the honeymoon stage. If this is the case, then you are not slipping by needing insulin lately, chances are you will forever need that insulin and will never be able to go back to not needing it. When the t1 diabetic is first diagnosed, sometimes not all the cells were dead yet. So by giving insulin via injection, you give a break to those cells that have yet to be killed by the immune system. So they have a break, rest and could make insulin for a short while. This is called the honeymoon stage and can last as long as a couple years. But eventually the white blood cells continue to attack the beta cells and finally finish off the last beta cells and insulin dependence is inevitable.
Jan-Mom of 17 yr old Type 1 (dx'd at age 5 1/2)
October 23, 2014 at 6:26 pm
What a ridiculous and downright dangerous article this is. You are so ill informed. Those 2 1/2 yrs of no insulin? That is called 'The Honeymoon Period'. Almost every single Type 1 experiences it, some for days, some for weeks, some for months, and some for a year to two or more. It is NOT related to what you ate or did not eat (although reducing carbs DOES help you need LESS insulin, it will not ELIMINATE the need for insulin). Type 1 diabetics need insulin TO SURVIVE even if they only drank water! The reason you need insulin now is because your honeymoon period is over ... not because you had the flu. I suspect you already know all of this, so you must have written this for financial gain, which frankly, makes me (and parents of Type 1 diabetics all over the world), very, very angry. I challenge you to speak to a few Endocrinologists ... not your family doctor or internist ... an actual ENDOCRINOLOGIST. I guarantee they will tell you that you are full of hooey. And then, Caroline, you have an OBLIGATION to write a retraction. The Type 1 community is very strong. Trust me ... this isn't going over well at all. Educate yourself and fix it, instead of trying to line your pockets at the expense of our children. I would very much like a reply from you.
- Karin
  October 24, 2014 at 4:59 pm
  Your comments and tone are very destructive and judgmental. I think even among different Endocrinologists there will be a variety of viewpoints as to how best to manage her Diabetes. You sound so negative and hopeless about her experience. Shouldn't we all be encouraged that Caroline is leading a healthier lifestyle b/c she is providing herself w/optimal nutrition and can rely on less insulin than she may need w/a SAD diet (Standard American Diet)? She is open and honest about her journey and has not made any claims to have found the ultimate cure for Diabetes. I love hearing your story Caroline, and am sorry that folks feel the need to take their anger out on you b/c they don't agree.This is a blog for people truly interested in a traditional diet and healthy lifestyle. From your comments about her success having nothing or very little to do with her diet, I'm wondering how you even found yourself on Carrie's blog. And to be so suspicious of someone having pure motives to help encourage others, is just sad. I hope that people will think about how destructive their words can be b/f they comment.Thank you, Caroline, for your encouraging story...I think many regular followers of this blog are uplifted!
Susan
October 23, 2014 at 6:44 pm
"I never drank soda or ate Oreos, so the thought of diabetes was never even on my radar."Soda and oreos has nothing to do with type 1. The food your mother fed to you, whether organic or not, healthy or not, junk food or not, has nothing to do with type 1 diabetes.You did not overcome type 1 diabetes with real food. You only lasted through a honeymoon phase. Then you got sick, because people with type 1 diabetes will get sick without insulin. Period.
Michelle
October 23, 2014 at 7:03 pm
I thought it was a great, encouraging article. I got the point: it's amazing what eating real food does for our bodies. Nobody is saying it is a cure all. If you don't like the article simply move on with your day. No need to lash out at people that are very helpful and informative.
Liz
October 23, 2014 at 7:11 pm
While I am happy anytime I hear someone with type 1 living healthy, the idea that weaning off insulin is the goal is disappointing. As a mom of a child with type one, I am grateful everyday that we have access to life saving insulin. The goal shouldn't be to be insulin free instead healthy by any means including taking the necessary dosage. Recently on an endo visit, my son asked the doctor what would happen if zombies struck and there was no insulin. She told him that was never going to happen. He insisted and asked if he just ate protein would he be ok. She said in the early days that is what people thought and they eventually starved themselves because no matter what he would always need long-term acting insulin. Everyday let's pray for a cure and accept that there is nothing wrong with having to take insulin.
maria
October 23, 2014 at 7:22 pm
Dear Carrie, I realize you do not have type 1 diabetes yourself, so as a person with the disease I just wanted to let you know it affects our lives way way more than hashimotos. (which I have also!) Talking about anything to do with getting off insulin, a cure, overcoming it really hits our (type 1's) emotional buttons hard. It gets our hopes soaring.... only to be dashed yet once again, So.... I think that is why there are so many negative comments to your article. Because we want to be off insulin and blood tests and free from the fear of blindness, amputations, kidney failure etc. It's a scary disease, and often even those who check their blood sugar 10 times a day, eat well, take insulin shots etc STILL go blind, have multiple miscarriages etc. Lastly, I want to share with those doubters: 6 years ago I went grain free , sugar free, low carb, real food, kale smoothies... etc for refractory celiac. Yes, my insulin doses are lower, but I still take 5 shots a day or use an insulin pump, and I still either check my bg 12 times a day or else am hooked up to a continuous glucose sensor. If I don't do these things, my blood sugars get out of control. Diabetes still rules my every waking minute. So this diet is wonderful- especially if you're like me with lots of autoimmune stuff- type 1, celiacs, hashi's!!! But the disease is still here. Maria type 1 30 years Certified Diabetes Educator
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 5:26 am
  I understand your concern. Caroline was simply sharing her story as was documented by her doctors, nurses and nutritionist. We used the present participle - overcoming - which means it is still happening. She specifically states there isn't a cure, but wanted to share her story to bring encouragement. I am proud of her for being bold enough to share her story with us all.
Jennifer
October 23, 2014 at 7:30 pm
Interesting, the moment you get feedback back from the REAL type 1 diabetic community, you delete our comments. Don't worry, we'll make sure to spread your article all over the Internet so more parents can be upset with your article and tell you about it. When you write blogs for the public to see, you have the responsibility to listen to the readers. May I suggest, you take what we have said an educate yourself. Then rewrite the story to reveal the facts. Thank you.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 5:00 am
  I am only deleting comments that are mean and vindictive. I do not tolerate those kinds of comments on my site. Caroline told her truthful story and that it is all. I am glad she was bold enough to share so that others might find hope in their circumstance.
Jenna
October 23, 2014 at 7:45 pm
So glad to see Caroline's story shared far and wide! It's a very encouraging example of the power real food has to support our bodies through chronic disease. I can imagine how confusing this can be for anyone who's been told their whole life that they have no control over a disease. But I've seen countless examples of real food and holistic nutrition help people beat the odds. Caroline, you're bold and inspiring for sharing your story. Thank you!
Susan
October 23, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Wow, my previous comment was truthful, not offensive, and yet you wouldn't post it. What are you trying to hide?
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 5:18 am
  I am not trying to hide anything. I turn off my computer in the evenings and the system is set up so that if someone new to the site is commenting, it needs to be approved. This helps keep he spam comments at a minimum.
Robin
October 23, 2014 at 8:31 pm
I feel that your article could if been great until you titled it "overcoming" . If indeed you have Type 1 diabetes, I and all of the Type 1 community and medical field will tell you, you have not "overcome "it. Yes, you can take down the amount of carbohydrates, give yourself lots of fiber, and make it so the keytones will fill your blood since the only energy that you are ingesting is made from other sources than carbohydrates, but you did not "Overcome" it. You will have it until it is cured, you may have it until you die, until there is a cure, you have type 1, plain and simple. There are people who will see your article and feel that they too can, "Overcome", type 1... Shameful really to give such hope... At 18 months old I can assure you my son's diet was not only organic but BPA free, etc. please reconsider a note posts that target "overcoming" type 1.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 5:21 am
  "Overcoming" is present tense. The present participle refers to things that are still happening, so this is why we chose this word.
Jennifer
October 23, 2014 at 8:45 pm
My comment again didn't pass your approval? Why? Nothing I said was hateful, just factually correct.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 5:16 am
  I turn off my computer in the evenings so this is why I am just now approving comments.
Eryn
October 24, 2014 at 7:17 am
So she ate a good diet with low carb food and took less insulin. She isn't overcoming diabetes she is reducing her insulin need. If a non diabetic did this their body would naturally adjust. If she eats carbs she needs insulin. She was also most likely in a honeymoon period and her body was still able to make some insulin and she was helping it along by eating that way. In no way is this a medical breakthrough. She is still insulin dependant and will always be. I don't think insulin should be called a medicine, most bodies make it we just put it in another way. There should be no stigma for the amount of insulin one takes. I believe this story would have been much more accepted if it was written as an encouraging story about living healthy with diabetes, not overcoming diabetes...
Kate
October 24, 2014 at 7:35 am
My son was diagnosed Type 1 almost 2 years ago with an at least an 8 month period prior to that when ignored by his primary care physician. Learning quickly outside of mainstream endocrinology we focused on a low carb high fat diet for this teen. It has allowed him to extend his honeymoon period. It did not take him off all insulin as he is a growing teen and hormones need the insulin. We also addressed the auto immune response with organic foods and supplementation. The low carb approach gives the pancreas a time to rest and keeps the remaining functioning beta cells in check with an extended honeymoon. Organic foods support the immune system as well.There is a long learning curve to this disease. I have not read all posts above, but do understand how this extended honeymoon could be created and how less insulin would be needed. I have not heard of that amount of time without any insulin. I would look into other forms of Type 1 (lada or mody) or even Type 2. Where all tests confirmed for Type 1 and have any additional tests been taken?For all of you that question diet change, please take time to read Dr. Richard Bernstein's Diabetes Solution Book.Reduction of insulin with a low carb diet and support of nutrient dense foods will allow the Type 1 a better ride with this disease.It is very difficult to know what may cause the storm to the immune system for Type 1 to occur. Sometimes it is what we remove (gluten for example and scientifically documented) that creates for a reversal for Type 1. And sometimes it is what we add (organic nutrient dense foods). But all can agree across the spectrum that a "clean" low carb diet is supportive for ALL dis-ease.I am interested to learn about Caroline's history.Kate
Kate
October 24, 2014 at 7:39 am
I will also add to my post above:Outside of low carb high fat, there are those that have followed a higher carb nutrient based plant based diet that has been very successful. Please read the works of Gabriel Cousen's and watch Raw For Thirty Days.There are different internal environments that can be created to give the body a chance to rest and repair.Kate
Sammy Seal
October 24, 2014 at 8:04 am
This article needs to be removed. Type One diabetics need insulin to live. If you are type one diabetic and you don't administer insulin, you go into diabetic ketoacidosis and die.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 8:16 am
  I understand your concern. Caroline was simply sharing her personal story as was documented by her doctors, nurses and nutritionist. She is not instructing anyone on how to manage their disease.
Naomi
October 24, 2014 at 8:25 am
I just wanted to say thank you for discussing this. my husband was diagnosed with autoimmune Type 1 and is insulin free thanks to many holistic and grain free etc. health choices. We hear many negative comments from people when we tell HIS truth. I can't understand why? I am always excited and hopeful to read about other peoples success. We are continuing further holistic treatments and are very hopeful for even better results. Have faith in your body's ability to heal.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 24, 2014 at 8:28 am
  Thank you so much for sharing, Naomi! What an incredible story. I'm so thankful your husband has found better health! I don't understand why there are so many negative comments either, especially when one is sharing their own personal story. I hope one day more people can open their mind to the possibility of holistic and alternative treatments. Again, thank you for your comment. :)
- Kate
  October 24, 2014 at 9:07 am
  Would love to hear what your husband did and is doing. Feel free to contact me at kajetan03@sbcglobal.net. My son is still in honeymoon and I'm looking in all directions to assist him.Thank you.
Organic Owl
October 24, 2014 at 1:35 pm
So inspiring, diabetes runs in my family and thankfully most of them that have it have kept it under control with diet. My husband and I are on our journey of medicinal eating!organicowlblog.com
Catherine
October 24, 2014 at 3:10 pm
Whilst great news that you managed to be insulin free for the time that you did, you were clearly in the honeymoon phase of the disease. So, it certainly shouldn't have been surprising, that you ended up back on insulin eventually. Diet is never going to be a cure for Type 1 diabetes. The title of the article is fairly misleading, diabetes was not overcome, nor is it ever likely to be. Many Type 1 diabetics, particularly in elite sporting fields are having great success with diets similar to yours. Controversial? Possibly. If it works though, I say, go for it. Anything that reduces insulin requirements has to be beneficial. I don't require any insulin, if I exercise just after meal. So potentially, exercising for an hour, three times a day would have me insulin free. It would be fairly difficult to sustain though. Diabetes is just one facet of my life, it is not my whole life.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 25, 2014 at 5:56 am
  The "ing" at the end of the word "overcome" makes it a present participle which means it's ongoing. Caroline clearly states there is no cure for type I diabetes.I'm glad to hear you've found what works best for your body. I know first hand, how disease can take over your life and I'm happy to hear you have been able to find balance in it all.We can all hope that one day there will be a cure and who knows, maybe diet will be a piece in that puzzle!
Denise
October 24, 2014 at 7:12 pm
Caroline, I certainly hope you can filter out all the negative comments sent your way. Good for you for taking control of YOUR health. I am happy you were insulin free for two years, I hope your future health will see more "free" days and years.
Margaret@KitchenFrau
October 24, 2014 at 9:25 pm
Dear Carrie and Caroline, I applaud you both for the wonderful work you are doing to spread the message that whole, healthy foods and good nutrition can work miracles at helping our bodies heal themselves and function at a more optimal level. I cannot believe the mean-spiritedness and judgemental attitude of many of the above comments. And the hang-ups about the use of the word 'overcoming' is so unbelievably ridiculous. Come on, people - when you overcome an obstacle, you figure out ways to deal with it, work through it, or move around it - you don't necessarily remove it from existence, just as Carrie and Caroline are not suggesting they've removed diabetes from Caroline's life - just that she has figured out a way for HERSELF and HER body to deal with the obstacle of diabetes in her life. She is not telling anyone that she is a medical expert and recommending any course of action for others to take (and even if she did, that wouldn't mean you'd have to do it!) Those of you that are rude enough to call her a liar for telling her story (shame on you) should just politely click away - nobody's forcing you to stay and read. Thank you both Carrie and Caroline for sharing your inspiring stories. Please don't let all this negativity stop you from doing this wonderful work. There are many of us out hear who truly believe in what you do and the appreciate the place of love and sharing it comes from.
- Deliciously Organic
  October 25, 2014 at 5:51 am
  Thank you, Margaret. I truly appreciate you taking he time to write encouraging words for us. You made my day. :)
Jo
October 26, 2014 at 7:45 pm
I understand the negative comments here and do believe they could have been minimized with some clarification or more careful wording of the article above. You repeatedly defend the use of the word overcoming due to the present tense, but surely 'managing' would be a fair substitution? I believe Caroline's story and think its wonderful, but I do side with many others in that it seems she has reduced her insulin requirement through diet, and for a few years her pancreas was making enough to cope (the oft cited 'honeymoon' period). I would like to know if there is a test that can be taken to determine if the body is producing ANY insulin, and if she has had such a test. I am not diabetic, but my brother is (type1 - diagnosed in his 20's), my aunt was (type1), and my father-in-law is (type2). Myself and another sibling also have other auto-immune conditions, and I'm really interested in diet and how it can help with the management of a whole raft of auto-immune diseases. Interestingly, for those who say 'you need insulin or you die' - this might not always be the case according to new research still in the very early stages, scientists are looking at leptin. See http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/09/130903123358.htm
Kathleen
October 28, 2014 at 7:41 am
From what I have learned and experienced is that Caroline is in an extended honeymoon period. With her change in diet and auto-immune support her pancreas has had a chance to rest. Hard to know what we have taken away. Hard to know what has been added to create the perfect environment for some to be off insulin. Her beta cells are functioning and allowing for normal blood sugars at this time. Low carb and off grains and paleo approach has allowed my son to extend his honeymoon and be on lesser amounts of insulin. I have heard of others extending their honeymoon with no insulin on plant based diets. What creates disease for one may be different for another. A Paleo approach is an excellent first approach to support both the immune system and ask the body for less insulin. Why do some ride well this way without insulin? Why do some ride well this way with insulin? That is certainly a question that we would all like to know. What is it that is taken away and what is it that is added to create the internal environment for each one of us? This may well be the diet for Caroline to create her perfect inner environment. And it may be the diet and support that will continue her insulin free support for years to come. I think most importantly, this article let's us know the importance of food and the role it plays in dis-ease.

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February 10, 2015 at 3:56 am
[…] Overcoming Type 1 Diabetes with Real Food – 23/10/2014 · Weaning completely off insulin when you’ve been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes? Unheard of, right? Come read this amazing story of recovery…. […]

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