Diabetes-Team

Diet for Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body is not able to convert sugars, starches and other food items into energy. During the process of digestion, the foods we eat get converted into the glucose, which is carried to the body through bloodstream. Insulin is responsible for turning this glucose into energy. But in case of people suffering from diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, or is not capable of using it correctly, which results in excessive glucose in the bloodstream.

Ideal Diet for Diabetes

Diet plays an important role in controlling diabetes, and well planned diet for diabetes provides adequate nutrition. Based on the condition, the dietician assesses the calorie requirement, and schemes the diet based on right proportions of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fiber and so on.

There is no single diet plan that will work for everyone, but planning the diet for diabetes requires adhering to some important factors. These factors include planning 4-5 smaller mid interval meals instead of three large one, at least 1.4 oz. of fiber per day, consuming fresh vegetables and fruits, not eating carbohydrates two hours prior to bedtime, and replacing the fast foods and bakery products with whole wheat cereals.

Diet for diabetes must include intake of garlic, cinnamon, bitter lemon, onion, and guar gum as they are known to considerably lower the blood glucose level. Consume fat free milk, cheese and yogurt, increase the intake of dry peas and beans, eat leafy salads along with beans, consume nuts rich in mono unsaturated fat and add fenugreek seeds and flaxseed into the wheat flour.

Diet for diabetes calls for limiting the intake of salt, limiting the use of condiments such as mustard, salad dressed and ketchup, baking or boiling the foods instead of frying, not skipping meals and medicines, avoiding smoke and alcohol consumption, rinsing the processed foods with water and avoiding junk food whenever possible.

Keep in mind that what you eat, when you eat and how much you eat plays a significant role in controlling the diabetes. Diet for diabetes must mainly include plant based foods. It is also essential to maintain the regular meal and snack time as it affects the blood sugar level. Eating too much will increase your weight, hence eat smaller healthy meals so that the body gets sufficient nutrients.

The diet for diabetes consists of simple foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The diet should be low in fat, high in nutrients and moderate in calories. However, you can definitely enjoy your favorite sins once in a while. The key here is to make sure that you combine it with exercise.

Studies have indicated that eating too much animal protein actually causes insulin resistance, which is a key factor in diabetes. Hence the healthy diet for diabetes should be ideal mix of carbohydrates, fats and protein.

If you have a sweet tooth, you might find it difficult to reduce your sugar consumptions. But, to follow the diet for diabetes, you can make healthy substitutions such as fruits instead of ice cream, water for soda, piece of fruit instead of pie and slice of cheese instead of cake. When you eat the treat, slowly savor each bite. Gradually, reduce or eliminate the amount of sugar you use in recipes.

If despite following the diet for diabetes and doing regular exercise, the blood lipids are high, you might need the lipid lowering drugs. To keep the blood sugar in control, match the mealtime to the form of insulin as explained by the doctor. Whether you are trying to control or prevent diabetes, the principles of healthy eating remains same. The so called expensive diet for diabetes or dietetic food usually offers no special benefits. If you eat in moderation, you can easily eat along with your family and friends. Just save the enjoyment of sweets for special occasions.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.