Type I diabetes may affect your appetite. This type of diabetes was previously referred to as "juvenile" or "insulin-dependent" diabetes and is usually diagnosed in children or young adults. The type I diabetic is unable to produce her own insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar converting food into energy. Type I diabetics may suffer concomitant health problems, including gastroparesis, which can decrease appetite. Keeping a healthy appetite with diabetes is instrumental in regulating your blood sugar and insulin use.
Step 1
Start by eating when you are hungry, not because your spouse says it is dinner time. Allow your internal clock to regulate meal times and stop when you are full.
Step 2
Break up your meals into six smaller meals throughout the day. Not only may this perk up your appetite, it can keep your blood sugar regulated better, with fewer highs and lows.
Step 3
Make meals fun, with a colorful presentation of your favorite foods. Although a healthy, balanced diet is vital to diabetes management, enjoy some comfort foods while paying attention to suggested serving sizes.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor about appetite medications and more importantly about the underlying cause for your lack of appetite. Type I diabetics may suffer severe hunger and thirst with blood sugar fluctuations, as opposed to a suppressed appetite. Prescription medications such as metoclopramide can enhance gastric emptying and help appetite loss from gastroparesis.
Step 5
Work with a dietitian to develop a short-term diet composed of clear liquids or soft foods for gastric rest. A dietitian will be able to incorporate exercise and daily caloric needs with proper nutrition for a diabetic.
Tips and Warnings
- Monitor your blood sugars more frequently during dietary changes.
- Exercise may reduce your blood sugars dangerously if you are not eating enough.
