Diet and Diabetes

“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will involve the patient in the proper use of food, fresh air and exercise” said the great scientist Thomas Edison around 100 years back. His prophecy is actually coming true in this century. Diabetes is one such disease which can be controlled by proper food and regular exercise. There is no special diet for diabetics; a diabetic diet is in reality a healthy and balanced diet.

Diabetes is a disease in which the blood sugar level of a person is very high, leading to symptoms like increased hunger and thirst and frequent urination. There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, the body fails to produce the hormone insulin (needed to control the blood sugar level); so food should be consumed to match the insulin intake. While in Type 2 diabetes, insulin is produced but the body fails to respond to it. One of the biggest causes of Type 2 diabetes is obesity, so the diet should be oriented to lose and/or control the weight.

Food for Diabetes

Nutritious carbohydrates – Carbohydrates have the highest impact on the blood sugar (glucose) level as they break down into glucose. So make sure you include the healthiest carbohydrates in your diabetic diet, like vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains and low-fat dairy products.

‘Healthy’ fats – Almonds, avocados, olives, walnuts, pecans, canola; peanut and olive oils contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and hence, help to lower the cholesterol level. But all fats are high in calories and hence should be eaten in moderation.

Fiber-rich foods – Fibers are very beneficial as they help control the blood sugar level and also decrease the risk of heart diseases. Fiber rich food includes beans, lentils, nuts, fruits, vegetables, wheat bran, whole wheat flour, etc.

Healthy and beneficial fish – Fish is a very beneficial food for diabetic patients and a very good alternative to other high-fat meats. Fishes like cod, halibut and tuna have less total fat and cholesterol; while other fishes like herring, salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. However, keep away from fried fish and high mercury level fish like swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish.

Safe Alcohol – As to contrary belief, diabetics can drink alcohol, but again, in moderation. Alcohol contains calories, so to maintain your weight it should be consumed sparingly, preferably two-three times a week. Binge drinking should be completely avoided.

The nutritional needs for a diabetic patient are same as normal people- so no need for any special foods or complicated diets. Eating in moderation, including lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grain in your diet, regular mealtimes and exercise can control your diabetes and make you live a long, healthy and normal life.