Diabetes is a chronic health disorder that affects the body's ability secrete insulin, which plays a vital role in transforming foods such as sugars and starches into energy required for regular functions. According to the National Diabetes Association, if a diabetic prescribed diet is not followed, medical conditions such as heart disease, neuropathy, kidney failure, stroke, blindness and associated illnesses can occur. As a result, diabetics need to follow a healthy diet to maintain optimal health.
Fatty Foods
The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics avoid eating fatty foods. Because diabetic patients are predisposed to developing heart related conditions, it is important to minimize foods that contain elevated amounts of trans and saturated fats. Foods typically high in unhealthy fats include butter, whole milk, sour cream, ice cream, egg yolks, chicken skin and organ meats. Processed foods such as cookies, crackers, chips and cakes contain trans fats and should be avoided.
Fruits
The Mayo Clinic recommends that diabetics consume limited amounts of fruits with high sugar such as nectarines, peaches, grapefruit, papaya, oranges, plums, pineapples, strawberries and bananas. These fruits contain high amounts of sugar, which elevates insulin level when sugar metabolizes. As a result, this spike can cause blood glucose levels to rise suddenly.
Starchy Foods
The Journal of Diabetic Care recommends that diabetics remain careful when eating starchy food products. White rice should be avoided as it contain few essential nutrients and can elevate blood-glucose levels. White bread and pastas possess a high-glycemic index. Consuming foods with a high glycemic index elevates blood sugar levels. Diabetics should avoid starchy foods, such as potatoes, peas, starchy vegetables, white pasta and corn.The National Diabetic Association suggests whole grain pastas, rice pasta, brown rice or other whole grain products be consumed.
Other Foods
The American Academy of Family Physicians advises diabetic patients to reduce or avoid the consumption of table sugar, sugary food products, salt, alcohol and honey. Eating more vegetables and lean proteins and consuming fewer calories can contribute to a healthy diabetic lifestyle. Diabetic patients who have additional questions about starchy, fatty or dairy foods should contact a physician or dietitian for further consultation.
References
- National Diabetes Association: Fats and Diabetes
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: What I need to know about Eating and Diabetes
- MedlinePlus: Diabetic Diet
- MayoClinic.com: Diabetes Diet
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Diabetes and Nutrition
- Journal of Diabetic Care: Glycemic Index and Dietary Fiber and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
