DIET-INDUCED RESOLUTION OF MACULAR OEDEMA FOLLOWING REMISSION OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN A PATIENT UNDERGOING THERAPEUTIC CARBOHYDRATE REDUCTION.

PURPOSE: There is growing evidence to support the potential role of low-carbohydrate healthy fat and ketogenic diets (therapeutic carbohydrate reduction - therapeutic carbohydrate reduction) in the management of diabetes mellitus. This case explores the use of a ketogenic diet to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in a middle-aged female with insulin-dependent disease.

METHOD: The patient presented to an optometrist with a history of blurred vision and was diagnosed with mild macular oedema in both eyes. Following review by an ophthalmologist and subsequently her general practitioner and endocrinologist, she was referred to a nutritionist specializing in therapeutic carbohydrate reduction.

RESULT: Within two weeks of the dietary change, the patient was able to cease her regular insulin and returned to normoglycaemia. Within four weeks of her initial appointment with the nutritionist, ophthalmology follow-up found a reduction in macular oedema in both eyes. At the last review 18 months later, macular oedema in both eyes had completely resolved.

CONCLUSION

This novel case demonstrates a clinical application of therapeutic carbohydrate reduction and requires further research.