Diabetic Diet Tips

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 these Diabetic Diet Tips listed below.

1. In general, the best type of diet to follow is a 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. 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. 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. 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 tips and information 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.