Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Diabetes Diet

ImageThe right kind of nutrition is key for people suffering from diabetes. It is a factor which can actually help manage the disease and at the same time prevent the dangerous complications that frequently arise in diabetics. It is crucial to keep blood sugar levels stable. This can be done by consuming the same amount of food at the same times every day.

Having a balance in blood sugar levels is important in preventing diabetes complications. Some of these guidelines to having a healthy diet include limiting intake of sweets, frequently eating, watching the amount of carbs consumed, consuming whole grains, fruits and vegetables, eating less fat and cutting back on the consumption of alcohol. All of these aspects can help get rid of some of the problems that are associated with diabetes. 

When looking for a healthy eating routine, the diabetes diet should aide followers in achieving their goal weight, maintaining a normal blood sugar level and help to cut back on foods that lead to heart disease.

For some who live with diabetes, the glycemic index is a valuable tool when planning meals. Foods are given values based on the impact they have on blood sugar. Foods with a high glycemic index help to increase blood sugar levels as opposed to foods with a low glycemic index.

In certain instances, diabetics prefer to use the exchange system where foods are broken into categories, which include fruits, starches, meats, meat substitutes and fats. One serving per group is known as an exchange. Every exchange has equal protein, carbs, fat and calories, along with having the same effect on the blood sugar. With the exchange system, individuals take an exact number of servings from each food group based on their personal needs.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 50 to 60 percent of calories consumed daily should be from carbohydrates, 12 to 20 percent from protein, and no greater than 30 percent from fat.

While there is not a single specific diet for people that have diabetes, there are recommended guidelines from the American Dietetic Association. One would be to pay careful attention to carbohydrate intake. Eat six or more servings of starches each day including starchy vegetables, bread, and cereal. Add beans and corn to casseroles or salads for an extra boost.

Consume five fruits and vegetables each day. Enjoy a piece of fruit as a snack or toss veggies into stews, side dishes or soups. Also, limit the number of sweets and sugars consumed to once or twice a week at most.

Fruits and veggies are very important since they are rich in soluble fiber which slows down the absorption of glucose from the intestines. Also, Beans keep blood sugars level. Whole grains, bran, and nuts have insoluble fiber which cleans out the lower gastrointestinal tract.

People who suffer from diabetes should consult with their doctor or a certified diabetes educator to verify that  the meal plan they are following is suitable for their condition.

credit by mydailymoment

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