A proper diet can reduce and even eliminate diabetic symptoms. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body's ability to use glucose, or blood sugar. According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2007 more than 23 million adults and children in the United States suffered from diabetes. The ADA estimates that another 53 million people may be pre-diabetic, at risk of developing the chronic condition. Consult a physician prior to starting any diet plan.
ADA Diet
There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is typically developed in childhood. Type 2 diabetes is also known as adult-onset diabetes. Obesity is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. If you are overweight or obese, the ADA recommends that you lose up to 1 lb. per week by following a low-calorie diet. Women should consume 1,000 to 1,200 calories each day, and men should consume 1,200 to 1,600 daily calories. In addition to calorie restriction, the ADA diet increases daily fiber and protein consumption and reduces fat and carbohydrate intake. The ADA also recommends that diabetics eat several small meals throughout the day, avoid soda and sweet juices, and avoid foods with high sugar content.
Mayo Clinic Diet
The Mayo Clinic's medical nutrition therapy, or MNT, for diabetics focuses on eating moderate amounts of nutritious food at regulated daily intervals. The diet is not restrictive. It focuses on eating low glycemic index foods. The glycemic index, or GI, measures how quickly carbohydrates digest in the body and how they affect blood glucose. Low GI foods typically have less effect on blood sugar. The Mayo Clinic diet also includes twice weekly servings of fish, high-fiber foods and foods containing healthy fat, such as nuts and olive oil.
The Buynak Plan
In his book "Dr. Buynak's 1-2-3 Diabetes Diabetes Diet," Dr. Robert Buynak describes a calorie ceiling diet. Buynak proposes that patients start with a modest caloric reduction of 500 calories per day. For instance, if you are currently consuming 3,500 calories each day, reduce that to 3,000 calories. Buynak suggests dividing your 3,000 calories into several meals and snacks. While the Buynak plan does not specifically restrict foods, it does encourage patients to limit consumption of fats and oils and increase the amount of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
References
- ADA: Diabetes Statistics
- University of Maryland: Weight Control for Type 2 Diabetes
- Mayo Clinic: Diabetes Diet
- "Dr. Buynak's 1-2-3 Diabetes Diabetes Diet"; Robert J. Buynak, M.D.; March 2006
