Diabetes affects approximately 25.8 million children and adults in the U.S., with Type 1 most commonly affecting children and adolescents, according to 2011 statistics from the American Diabetes Association. Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas produces insufficient insulin, a hormone that allows sugar to enter the cells of your body. While there is no cure for Type 1 diabetes, a diet that helps to regulate blood glucose levels can help keep your diabetes under control and prevent complications.
Background
Type 1 diabetes occurs when your body's own immune system destroys the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. Once these cells stop producing insulin, the glucose from your food is unable to enter the cells of your body and be utilized for energy. As a result, your cells are starved for energy and you have excess glucose in your bloodstream. The lack of energy available to your cells can cause symptoms of weight loss, fatigue and extreme hunger. The excess glucose in your bloodstream can cause blurred vision, increased thirst and frequent urination.
Food Choices
People with diabetes are able to choose from a variety of foods within each food group, but choosing foods that do not cause fluctuations in blood sugar is important. Starches provide carbohydrates which are easily broken down into sugar, but carbohydrates that are high in fiber help maintain even blood sugar levels. Whole grain bread, cereal, pasta and beans are all excellent choices. Vegetables do not raise your blood sugar dramatically and may be eaten in abundance. Examples include broccoli, carrots, tomatoes and peppers. Fruits are another important component of a diabetic diet, though whole fruit raises blood glucose less than fruit juice. Finally, milk is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Milk choices should focus on low-fat or fat-free dairy products such as skim milk or low-fat yogurt.
Amount of Food
Consuming foods in moderation is particularly important if you are diabetic, as a meal that is heavy in carbohydrates may result in an elevated blood glucose. Your dietary plan is dependent on your size and exercise level, but a person that requires approximately 1,600 calories per day will need to consume eight servings of starch, four of vegetables, three of fruits, two of dairy and 4 to 6 oz. of meat. Serving sizes can be misleading, particularly as pre-packaged food often contains more than one serving. One slice of bread constitutes one serving of starch while one apple or 1 cup of carrots constitutes a serving of fruits or vegetables.
Considerations
A healthy, well-balanced diet can improve your blood glucose levels and help you to avoid the complications of diabetes. Some of these complications include heart disease, stroke, eye disease, kidney disease and frequent infections. If you have Type 1 diabetes, diet alone will not be adequate treatment. Since your pancreas does not produce insulin, you will need to give yourself insulin injections. Your physician will instruct you on how to measure your blood sugar levels and when to administer the insulin. While Type 1 diabetes can be a serious illness, dietary changes and adherence to medication can allow you to attain a healthy, long life.
