Review of "Walking into the Light"
Walking into the Light is an inspiring story of one man’s journey into the depths of type 1 diabetes, and his discovery of a pathway back to health and light. Well-informed and passionately written, Lucas Verhelst’s lived experience of diabetes and his empathy for others suffering from diabetes is infused with a personal wisdom of someone who has lived through, and thrived beyond a lifelong diagnosis: a diagnosis often associated with judgment and stigma. “Walking into the Light is packed with practical advice on managing the transition to a vegan lifestyle, growing your own sprouts and managing your group B vitamin needs.”
I am well familiar with Dr Neal Barnard’s Program for Reversing Diabetes, as is Lucas, but as well he shares with people living with diabetes, their families, their clinicians and all other readers a powerful story of survival and hope. All too often I’ve witnessed the spiral some insulin-dependent diabetics find themselves in as they pile on the weight. His weight blew out to 120kg, and he was beginning to witness the physical and emotional complications of poorly controlled diabetes. By taking back responsibility for his health and applying the principles well researched by Dr Neal Barnard, Lucas shed 40kg, reversed the complications of his diabetes, and rediscovered love in his life.
Lucas discovered a vegan diet based on legumes, nut and seeds, fruits, multi-grains, and vegetables, eliminating added vegetable oils, and other high fat foods. The results were dramatic, but not unusual for those who adopt Dr Neal Barnard’s program. His energy levels returned, his emotions stabilised and he re-engaged with life to the full.
Walking into the Light is packed with practical advice on managing the transition to a vegan lifestyle, growing your own sprouts and managing your group B vitamin needs. He talks you through your need to down-regulate your medications with your primary care clinician or GP and how to manage travelling and eating out.
Chapter ten is packed with delicious recipes that are great for diabetics, and anyone interested in exploring a vegan lifestyle. I will be recommending Walking into the Light to my patients with diabetes. I have no doubt that many of my type 2 diabetics will be empowered to take charge of their diabetes and reverse their diabetes.
