Diet Tips for Diabetics
As a diabetic, you need to pay constant
attention to your eating habits and your sugar levels. You should also
keep in regular contact with your doctor or medical supervisor, in case
your condition changes. In addition, you may find it useful to follow
the following guidelines.
1. In general, the best type of diet
to follow is a low-GI diet
For more details, see Low GI Diet
"The
diet for diabetes is a balanced healthy diet, the same kind that is
recommended for the rest of the population — low in fat, sugar
and salt, with plenty of fruit and vegetables..." (British
Diabetic Association) www.diabetes.org.uk/home.htm
2. Make lower-GI complex high-fiber
carbs a major part of your diet
Carbohydrates can be divided into two types:
Simple Carbohydrates (typically
higher-GI foods)
These include ingredients like sucrose, glucose or fructose, or foods
like sweets, candies, cakes, sweet drinks, jams.
Simple carbohydrates are rapidly absorbed
and digested.
Result? They cause a sudden surge of sugar in your bloodstream which can
cause problems. So they should be avoided altogether, or eaten in very
small quantities.
Complex Carbohydrates (choose
lower-GI varieties)
Also called starches, these include whole wheat or wholegrain bread,
whole wheat pasta, brown rice, beans, oats, most vegetables and fruits.
Complex carbohydrates are slowly absorbed
and digested.
Result? They help to keep our sugar levels relatively stable.
Note: If a small amount of simple
carbohydrate (e.g. jam/preserve) is eaten and absorbed with a quantity
of complex carbohydrate (e.g. wholegrain bread), the sugar in the simple
carbohydrate will be absorbed more slowly.
3. Drink alcohol in moderation
Ideally avoid it altogether. Alcohol behaves like a simple carbohydrate
and can quickly destabilize your sugar-levels. If you can't avoid it,
drink ONLY in moderation and NEVER on an empty stomach.
4. Learn about nutrition
Managing diabetes requires daily discipline.
By following a proper diet, you will make things a lot easier for yourself.
For the sake of your long term health,
you must not delegate the planning of your diet to someone else. You
must take an active role.
The only way to do this, is to find out
as much as you can about healthy eating for diabetics. Consult your doctor
or dietician. Visit your local library or bookshop. Search the Internet
for information.
5. Follow a regular exercise plan
Exercise is particularly important for diabetics, as it helps to regulate
blood sugar levels. If you do not take regular exercise, I strongly urge
you to consult your doctor for advice about exactly how much exercise
you need and when you should take it.
Health Disclaimer
The diabetic diet information and advice offered above is intended as
a general guide ONLY. If you have diabetes, please consult your doctor
about the best way to handle your condition. Diabetes is a serious condition
which requires personal, professional advice.
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