Diabetes is the general name for a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Normally your body can control the glucose levels in your blood through a series of physiological processes. Those who have diabetes have disrupted physiological processes and must follow a diet that prevents blood sugar from getting too high.
Physiology
When you eat foods that contain carbohydrates, your digestive system breaks them apart, creating the simple sugar glucose. Glucose travels through your digestive tract until it is gets absorbed into the bloodstream. In healthy individuals, glucose in the bloodstream stimulates the pancreas to release the hormone insulin, which binds to glucose and helps the cells use it for energy. Excess glucose is carried to the liver, where it is converted to glycogen and stored in the liver. Those with diabetes have disruptions in a part of this process.
Types
In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is not physically able to produce insulin. This usually occurs as a result of an autoimmune reaction that attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, destroying them. Type 1 diabetes usually begins in childhood.
In those with type 2 diabetes, the pancreas can produce insulin, but your cells and tissues cannot utilize it. Glucose in the blood stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, but both insulin and glucose levels remain high because the cells have become resistant to its effects. Type 2 diabetes has a later onset than type 1 diabetes.
Carbohydrates
Because a diabetic's body cannot control glucose levels on its own, it is important for a diabetic to monitor her carbohydrate intake to avoid high levels of blood glucose, or hyperglycemia. Diabetics should try to spread their carbohydrate intake over the course of the day and consume equal amounts of carbohydrates at every meal. In addition, most carbohydrates should be whole-grain and fiber-rich, rather than refined or full of white flour. This can keep their blood sugar levels steady and avoid spikes in blood sugar.
Balance
In addition to monitoring carbohydrate intake, it is important for a diabetics to make sure they are eating a balanced amount of protein and fat, which can keep you full longer. Choosing the right types of protein and fat is important to avoid weight gain, which can increase insulin resistance. The best protein sources include poultry, fish, nuts and seeds. The best fat sources are those that contain unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, nuts, avocado and fatty fish like salmon and mackerel. Making sure that you stay full over the course of the day can help prevent intense hunger, which can lead to overeating and resulting spikes in blood sugar.
Considerations
In addition to following the proper diet, type 1 diabetics require the administration of insulin. MayoClinic.com notes that a type 1 diabetic would not be able to survive without insulin. Without insulin, type 1 diabetics would not be able to utilize glucose regardless of how controlled their diet was. A type 1 diabetic usually gives herself insulin several times over the course of a day.
