Diabetes is a challenging condition to manage. A simple lifestyle and exercise can help manage diabetes very effectively. Diabetes does not have a specific diet per se but choosing from the major food groups, and nutrient-rich sources is essential to limit the further progression of the disease. As normally the bulk of the food is broken down into glucose which circulates through the bloodstream; this glucose, with the help of insulin, is released as energy. The insulin imbalance in diabetic patients renders the glucose to stay in the bloodstream putting the person’s health at risk. Hence, diabetic patients are restricted from consuming added sugar or foods rich in saturated fats. The way to go is to stick to regular mealtimes and eat foods that will help you maintain your blood sugar levels. A diet for diabetes is a diet that everyone can take. We will discuss some diets that can be beneficial and full of nutrition for patients with diabetes
Mediterranean diet:
It focuses on Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes, fish, and extra virgin olive oil. It is excellent for the prevention and management of diabetes. Studies have suggested that people on this diet may have an 83% lower chance of developing diabetes, and a lower risk of developing diabetes is also seen among cardiovascular patients. The restricted foods in this diet are red meat, sweets, and processed meat.
DASH Diet:
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet focuses on low sodium consumption. It regulates blood pressure and prevents cardiovascular disease risk in diabetic patients. As it is common for diabetic patients to face co-morbidities, it is vital that they must be stopped at all costs. Diabetes is tiresome enough to manage alone. This diet emphasizes Grains, lean meat, poultry and fish, fruits and vegetables, and it limits processed sugars and saturated fats.
Vegetarian or vegan diet:
The plant-based diets are very popular. Some people have eggs and dairy, while others completely omit them and go entirely plant-based. Vegetables, whole grains, and nuts are taken in this diet. Some researchers have linked meat consumption to a higher risk of diabetes, and a vegetarian diet might be preferable. It helps in maintaining weight and blood glucose. There are no sugar spikes associated with this diet.
Foods to avoid:
Patients with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing stroke, cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems. Food that should be avoided includes pasta, white bread, white rice, and potatoes. They raise the sugar level very quickly, which is dangerous for a person with an insulin imbalance. Fried foods, foods high in saturated fats and trans fats, high in sodium, sweets (like baked goods, candy, and ice cream and beverages like juice, regular soda, regular energy drinks, and sports drinks should be avoided. Macronutrients should be targeted in the diet instead of processed and simple carbohydrates. A balanced diet will immensely help to keep the glycemic index under control.