Healthy Eating For Diabetics

Answer 1

Living with Diabetes doesn't mean having to give up all of the delicious foods one has enjoyed. It simply means managing the dietary intake, keeping blood sugar levels under control and avoiding foods that are full of simple carbohydrates. One of the best tools to use when designing a meal plan suitable for diabetics is the food pyramid. The different groups of foods are listed according to the usable nutrients they contain and to what degree each type of nutrient is required on a daily basis.

Selecting Foods Offering Balanced Nutrition

Diabetics must of course keep their sugar levels under control. At the base of the food pyramid is the bread, grain, cereal and pasta group. Nutritional experts agree that this food group should be given priority. Whole grains not only contain a high level of protein, they also offer individuals a good source of soluble fiber. Diabetics need carbohydrates just like everyone else, but simple carbohydrates are absorbed rapidly and should for the most part be avoided. The bread group contains foods rich in complex carbohydrates, which are absorbed much more slowly into the system and will not result in an appreciable rise in glucose levels.

Vegetables that are fresh or frozen contain less carbohydrates than fruits. They are also high in vitamin and mineral content. It is best for diabetics to avoid canned vegetables as they contain a higher amount of sodium in the liquid. Diabetics should also avoid adding too much salt or butter to vegetables. When eaten raw or steamed these foods will contribute the highest level of nutrition possible.

Less Meat And Fatty Foods

Diabetics will be advised by their physician to avoid fatty foods because of the possibility of weight gain. Sparse servings of lean meat is fine, but fat-laden meats such as pork are generally to be avoided. Meat provides complete proteins, but individuals can consume foods with complementary proteins such as beans and rice to achieve the same results.

Candies, Confections And Fats

Anything that is full of sugar means a great deal of empty calories in the form of simple carbs. It is fine to eat a cookie or doughnut once in a while, but diabetics should avoid consuming too much sugar. The body requires fat to coat nerve endings and for insulation, but only about a tablespoon is needed on a daily basis. Diabetics who love soup are encouraged to consume those which are water-based rather than those which are based in milk or cream. Fried foods also contain a high level of fats and should be avoided. Chicken that is baked rather than fried contains very little fat. Potatoes that are baked instead of fried in fat are much more healthy as a food for diabetics.