A proper diabetic diet plan is helpful for diabetic patients. When food gets digested, it is broken down into sugar. This provides energy to the cells. Insulin, which is a hormone made in the pancreas, enables the glucose to be transferred from the blood to the body cells.
When there is less insulin or if it is not working properly, the glucose stays in the blood. This causes a spike in the blood sugar levels.
Diabetes is of three types: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes happens when the pancreas are not able to produce insulin. This is generally found in kids and young adults. Gestational diabetes can happen towards the end of a woman’s pregnancy and generally goes away after delivery. The most common kind of diabetes is the type 2 diabetes. It is generally caused due to less physical activity, being overweight and genetics among others.
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When diabetes is not well managed, it can lead to a host of health complications. Diet can play a major role in managing the condition. It is recommended that foods that increase blood sugar are avoided such as foods that are high in saturated or trans fats, processed foods and foods high in sugar. A healthy diet and a regular regimen of exercise can go a long way towards preventing and controlling diabetes.
Here are some diet tips for diabetes.
Apples
Studies have shown that those who eat apples every other day have a lower risk of developing the disease than those who did not eat any. Also, they contain both soluble and insoluble fibres which are good for your health. It also works to lower bad cholesterol by a significant percentage and is thus great for your heart as well.
Beans
They are a good source of protein and fibre and is an important part of any healthy diet. Studies have found that eating around a cup of legumes every day helped control blood sugar better thus making it a must have in your diabetic diet.
Vegetables
Veggies contain plenty of nutrients and are low in fat and calories. They are also very filling. A few portions of vegetables every day is excellent for good health.
Fruits
Fruits are a great source of plenty of minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber. They are also less in calories and fat.
Lean protein
Make sure that you have good amounts of lean protein in your everyday diet. The body needs protein to function. Also, it helps keep one full for a longer time. Most of the protein food options do not increase blood sugar levels and can be included in the diabetic diet.
Avocado
The fruit contains plenty of mono saturated fats that help enhance insulin sensitivity. This is one of the best known super foods to help manage diabetes better.
Salt
This negatively impacts blood pressure. Stay away from packaged foods, chips and snacks that contain sodium. It is recommended that your salt intake be less than 3000 mg per day.
Diet for diabetes
Having diabetes does not mean that you have to deprive yourself of good food. It is good to make healthy food choices and balance your meals. Keep in mind, a proper diabetic diet plan can go a long way towards improved overall energy, health, and attitude. It also helps keep at bay several health issues that come with the condition.
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It has been seen that foods that are high on the “glycemic index” can lead to a spike in the blood sugar level than other foods. Some high glycemic foods include sweets, white bread, pastries, packaged foods, dried fruit, frozen desserts, whole milk and burgers. These are best avoided to maintain blood sugar levels. It is also good to completely avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol. Low glycemic foods are most leafy greens, vegetables, whole grain bread, buttermilk, skim milk, fish, chicken, and many nuts.
A good diet for diabetes is one that is low in simple sugars and fat, and high in complex carbohydrates and fiber. This keeps the blood sugar levels balanced. Apart from the type of foods, the timing of eating is also important. It is best to eat every four to five hours. Have your meals at regular times. Also, make sure you do not skip your breakfast.
Stick to your diabetic diet plan, and consult with your doctor on time to time, for a long, healthy and disease free life.
