The key essentials in a diabetic diet

Diabetics can lead a normal life if they make certain changes in their life style. Balancing certain foods can help maintain health, improve overall well-being, and prevent future complications. The main mode of treatment of diabetes are-drug, diet, exercise and education. The nutritional requirements of a diabetic are the same as in the non-diabetic. However the nutrient intake has to be prescribed to the individual based on the age, sex, weight, height, physical activity and physiological needs of the patient. Before giving dietary prescription patients detail regarding daily activity, height, weight and dietary history are collected and accordingly requirements are calculated.

It is always better for a diabetic to maintain the body weight 10% lower than the ideal body weight. People can learn to balance meals and make healthful food choices while still including the foods they enjoy. Unmanaged diabetes can increase your risk of developing heart disease. Diabetic patients are also at risk for blindness, amputation and kidney failure. Dr. Madhurima Sinha, Head of the Department of Nutrition at CARE Hospitals Nampally discusses the key essentials in a diabetic diet.

•Diabetics need not restrict the carbohydrate intake but they need to alter the type of carbohydrate in their diet. The problem with some starchy foods is that it can raise blood glucose levels quickly, which can make it harder for you to manage your diabetes. These foods have something called a high glycaemic index (GI). Whole cereals and pulses contain complex carbohydrates which takes longer time to digest and release energy slowly. Ex. Whole wheat, brown rice, oats, millets, vegetables and beans are good choices.

•Avoid simple carbohydrates, processed refined sugar, honey, jaggery, white rice, white bread, pastries, cakes, chips, pasta.

•Milk, cheese and yogurt have lots of calcium and protein in great for your bones, teeth and muscles. But some dairy foods are high in fat, particularly saturated fat, so choose lower-fat alternatives. It’s better to go for unsweetened yoghurt and add some berries if you want it sweeter. If you prefer a dairy alternative like soya milk, choose one that’s unsweetened and calcium-fortified. Sugar present in milk and fruits raise blood sugars at a slightly lower rate.

•Having diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t have fruit. Fruit and veg are naturally low in calories and packed full of vitamins, minerals and fibre. They also add flavour and variety to every meal. Fruits can be taken in right quantity juices should be avoided. Skimmed milk and its products are good for diabetics.

•Protein requirement can be fulfilled by including fish, chicken (not in fried form), milk and its products, eggs, pulses and nuts. Non-veg, nuts can be consumed in restricted quantity.

•Oils should be used in moderation. Trans fat needs to be avoided example; bakery products, deep fried food items.

•Empty calories like cold drinks, health drinks, detox drinks, fruit juices need to avoid.

•Diet containing high dietary fiber present in vegetables is soluble in nature and more effective in controlling blood sugar. Include rainbow of vegetables (colorful vegetables) cooked (with less oil) and salads in daily diet.

•Meal timing is also very important for people with diabetes. In between three major meals 2-3 short snacks should be included. Skipping a meal or eating late puts a person at risk for low blood sugar; over eating increases blood sugars best way is NO FEAST NO FAST.

For Appointment: Dr. Madhurima Sinha, Head of the Department of Nutrition at CARE Hospitals Nampally