Diabetes is a disease of impaired blood sugar control due to an ineffective or insufficient supply of the hormone insulin. Individuals with diabetes must carefully plan the types of foods eaten and the timing of meals to prevent high blood sugar. Dietary carbohydrates affect blood sugar levels, so monitor your intake of these for proper glycemic control. Consult a registered dietitian for assistance in creating individualized meal plans.
Diabetes Physiology
In a nondiabetic individual, the hormone insulin is released in response to the bloodstream's sugar content. Insulin allows for the transfer of sugar from the bloodstream into the body cells. Once inside, sugar is then metabolized for energy. This whole process is regulated so blood sugar is kept at a normal level automatically. In diabetes, an insufficient amount of insulin is available for sugar transfer, resulting in sugar buildup in the bloodstream. Control the type and amount of dietary carbohydrates eaten to keep blood sugar levels low enough so insulin's capacity is not overloaded. Lower blood sugar levels result. High blood sugar levels over time are associated with adverse health consequences, such as heart disease and eye, kidney and circulation problems. Keep blood sugar levels normal to prevent or delay these from occurring.
Role of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates exist in either a simple or a complex form. Examples of simple carbohydrates include granulated sugar, honey, high fructose corn syrup, brown sugar and dextrose. Avoid these foods to keep sugar levels low. Use alternatives that do not raise blood sugar, such as aspartame or sucralose. Drink diet soda instead of regular soda pop.
Complex carbohydrates are absorbed more slowly than simple carbohydrates are, which lowers blood sugar and insulin demand. Examples of complex carbohydrate-containing foods include low-fat milk, plain yogurt, whole grains, vegetables and fruits.
Proteins
Protein foods differ chemically from carbohydrates and do not yield sugar after digestion and absorption. Even so, they are essential for good health and should be included in a healthy diet. Combine protein foods with complex carbohydrates at meals for blood sugar stabilization. Good sources of protein include beef, chicken, fish and shellfish, eggs and turkey. Dried peas and beans are also sources of protein that contain complex carbohydrates.
Fats
Dietary fats provide energy for the body without elevating blood sugar levels. Limit your fat intake to avoid excess calorie intake which leads to weight gain. Choose foods that contain the heart healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, such as olive and canola oils, avocados and nuts. Avoid saturated fats found in animal foods such as butter, lard and shortening as these contribute to blood cholesterol elevation.
Importance of Regular Meals
For blood sugar stabilization, plan to eat every four to five hours. Evenly distribute your carbohydrate intake between these to avoid exceeding insulin's capacity to lower blood sugar. A registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator can offer further individualized assistance in planning your meals.
