Nutrisystem Diet for a Diabetic

Nutrisystem Diet for a Diabetic
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Most people who are overweight could benefit from dropping some of those extra pounds, and that's definitely true if you're diabetic. Managing your weight can help you manage your disease and get your blood sugar under control. Some diabetics might want to consider Nutrisystem D, a weight-loss program designed for Type 2 diabetics.

Diabetics and Diet

According to the American Diabetes Association, research shows weight loss and exercise actually can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. For those already coping with the disease, the organization recommends vigilance on diet and exercise to lower blood sugar, improve levels of blood fats such as cholesterol, lower blood pressure, ease stress on joints and increase energy.

About Nutrisystem

In the Nutrisystem program, you select meals and snacks that are delivered to your home --- 28 days' worth at a time. You also must supplement the Nutrisystem foods with your own groceries, such as yogurt to go with breakfast, fruit for a snack, or a green salad to go with a dinner entrée. Nutrisystem's website says the program makes dieting easier by controlling portion size while still offering variety.

Nutrisystem for Diabetics

Nutrisystem offers plans aimed at specific groups of dieters --- men, women, older adults and vegetarians, for example. The company says its Nutrisystem D program offers low-glycemic-index meals with healthful carbohydrates, protein and fiber. You're directed to eat six times a day to maintain stable blood glucose levels and avoid getting too hungry. You also can use online support tools such as weight trackers and discussion boards.

Food Options and Cost

Nutrisystem D offers 129 food choices you can select by phone or online. Examples include cereals, pancakes, omelet and granola bars for breakfast; soups and pasta dishes for lunch; chicken and beef entrees, wraps and pizzas for dinner; and cakes, cookies and chips for desserts or snacks. The foods are similar to processed entrees and snacks in grocery stores. Expect to pay about $350 for four-weeks' worth of food, with special promotional offers cutting the cost at times.

Other Considerations

A session with a dietitian can help you decide the best way to lose weight to help manage your diabetes, and may be covered by your insurance. The American Diabetes Association urges people to clear out tempting foods that are high in fat and sugar, keep plenty of fruits and vegetables on hand, and avoid extra-large portions that can pile on pounds. Also try to include more exercise in your daily routine to boost your energy and work off extra calories.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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