Diabetes is a condition caused by problems with the body's production or response to insulin, a hormone which helps the body pull glucose out of the blood. People with diabetes have chronically high blood sugar levels, which can lead to dangerous complications, such as heart disease. One important aspect of treating diabetes is changes in the patient's food intake.
Goals
There are three main goals for a diabetes diet plan. First of all, a diet plan for diabetics should promote healthy blood glucose levels, as this can help minimize the symptoms of diabetes and reduce the risk of complications. Maintenance of healthy lipid levels and blood pressure are another goal, as high blood pressure and a poor lipid profile can increase the risk of heart disease. Finally, diabetics should tailor their food intake towards maintaining a healthy weight; being overweight is associated with diabetes and losing excess pounds can aid in the management of the disease, HealthCentral states.
Recommended Foods
There are a number foods which the American Diabetes Association recommends as staples of a diet for diabetes. Diabetics should try to eat lots of fruits and non-starchy vegetables. Lean meats and dried beans can help add protein to the diet. Fish, in particular, is recommended two to three times a week; not only does fish provide protein, but the oil in some fish can help lower triglycerides and increase the patient's levels of "good" cholesterol in the blood. Whole grains and complex carbohydrates are also recommended.
Foods to Avoid
There are a number of things that should be minimized in a diabetics food intake. Simple carbohydrates, such as sugars, foods made with white or semolina flour and white rice can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose levels. Saturated and trans fats can also be bad for diabetics, the Mayo Clinic explains, as they can increase their risk of developing heart disease. Cholesterol and sodium should also be minimized as they can also increase a person's risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Meal Planning
Meal planning can help people control their food intake for diabetes. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders has different plans which allot a specific number of servings of starches, vegetables, fats, fruits, dairy and meat products for different ranges of daily caloric intake. Following a diet plan makes it easier for diabetics to have a well balanced and healthy diet.
Limitations
Although food intake can have a powerful effect on diabetes, diabetes is a serious condition, which requires regular blood glucose testing as well as the supervision of a physician. Uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health problems. Even with a proper diet, many diabetics need to take medications to keep their blood glucose at acceptable levels.
