Foods for Diabetes Control
Contrary to popular belief there is no “diabetes diet” as such. Therefore you don’t have to worry too much. You and your family can enjoy the same nutritious food as you always have.
However if you are suffering from diabetes it is very important to take care of yourself. One of the things you need to do is eat right. You need to pay attention to the type of food you eat, the quantity you eat and when you eat.
By doing this you will not only feel good, but will also get in shape. Your risk for diseases related to the heart and other ailments will also be greatly reduced.
By eating healthy, you reduce your blood sugar or blood glucose. Eating health food combined with exercise and medication prescribed by your doctor is a great combination for good health. Here are a few tips that can be a part of your treatment program.
- Include more starch in your meals such as bread and starchy vegetables. At breakfast you could eat cereal, low fat milk, and a bagel.
- Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables to five portions everyday. The soluble fibers found in these fruits and vegetables help in reducing or slowing down the absorption of glucose from the intestines.
- Reduce your intake of sugars and sweets. You may eat your favorite sweet just once a week.
- Do not hesitate to contact a dietician who will be able to tailor a diet plan for you based on your tastes and lifestyle. Your dietician will work out a combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fiber and other essential macronutrients that you need to consume in order to stay healthy.
- Restrict your consumption of fast food with simple whole cooked cereals.
- Avoid any intake of carbohydrates at least two hours before you go to bed.
- Four to five small meals are beneficial than three heavy meals.
- Instead of opting for diabetic food, stick to ordinary normal food but make sure it fits in your overall diet plan. Diabetic foods are generally prepared by adding a bulk sweetener which might have a laxative effect and increase your blood sugar levels.
- Control the intake of fatty foods in your diet. Fats, to a great extent, contribute to your becoming overweight. Use more of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats while cooking instead of saturated fats.
To sum up, being diabetic does not mean that you completely give up sugar and sweets. These can be included in your diet and not necessarily have an effect on your blood sugar levels. It is however important that you control your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to prevent complications such as heart disease, tooth decay, and weight gain.