Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not properly store or produce insulin, the hormone that helps break down sugars. If you are suffering from diabetes, you need to eat a balanced diet that minimizes the effects of diabetes. Many recommended dietary choices are available to you.
A Healthy Diet
There is no such thing as a "diabetic diet"; however, there is such thing as a diet that helps keep blood sugar at a healthy level. In fact, a diet that is good for a person with diabetes is good for most people. A diet, to be considered healthy, must provide nutrients such as protein, fiber, and safe amounts of carbohydrates. Vitamins and minerals should be found in the food you eat as well so that your body can receive vital nutrients.
Carbohydrates
The first step in creating a diet suitable for diabetics is the strict control of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are broken down to make the sugar your body uses for energy. This process does not work well in a diabetic, as the vital hormone your body uses in this process is either not produced or not stored properly. That is why you need to put healthy complex carbohydrates in your body. Replace all empty carbohydrates such as white pasta, white bread, and white rice with whole wheat, brown rice and other whole grains. These nutrient-rich grains provide needed carbohydrates but also contain proteins and fiber.
Fruits are highly nutritious substances; however, they contain high amounts of carbohydrates, so you need to control how much of them you eat. Instead of eating candy or non-nutritious sweets, you should eat fresh fruit. Diabetes ranges in severity. Some diabetics can eat more carbohydrates than others. Before completely planning your carbohydrate intake, discuss the severity of your diabetes with your doctor, and learn of any percentage or amount of daily intake your doctor recommends. Once you have that information, craft your diet around it.
Alcohol
You need to carefully monitor alcohol if you suffer from diabetes. Alcohol contains high amounts of sugar, especially mixed drinks. You should consume alcohol only when your blood sugar level is under control. For further guidance discuss this issue with your health care provider. If your diabetes is not as severe, you may be able to consume more.
Sweets
Because America has so many people living with diabetes, companies have created many sugar-free options. There are sugar-free candies and ice creams in major grocery stores. If eaten in moderation, these foods can provide your sweet tooth a fix, while not causing harm. If eaten in excess, however, these foods can cause digestive issues, such as gas and diarrhea. If you feel that you need the real deal, like an occasional candy bar or bowl of real ice cream, substitute that food, do not add it to your diet. The candy bar or bowl of ice cream should substitute for another carbohydrate that is regularly in your diet.
A Colorful Plate
The key for diabetics searching for a healthy diet is eating a wide variety of foods. A dinner plate, for example, should contain lean cuts of meat and vegetables, moderate portions of whole grains and fruits. Nuts and legumes are valuable sources of nutrients and should be consumed regularly. Limit intake of unhealthy fats. Grilled chicken makes a much healthier choice than fried chicken. Substitutes like this can lead to a major increase in overall bodily health.
You should monitor calories. Being overweight is dangerous if you are diabetic, as excess fat puts a strain on the body. Each person is different, and calorie intake should be as well. Discuss a healthy caloric amount with a health care specialist.
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