The main goal of a diabetic diet is to help maintain stable blood glucose levels. Individuals with diabetes have impaired production of the hormone insulin or their body has become resistant to the effects of the hormone. As a result, excess glucose remains coursing through the bloodstream, rather than being metabolized into fuel. Chronically high glucose levels in the blood can cause damage to organs like the kidneys and to the neurological system. Diabetic diets vary widely, depending on the source of the diet and the purported theories behind their effectiveness. Check with your doctor before making significant dietary changes.
Weight Control
Attaining and maintaining an ideal weight is one of the best ways to control diabetes and is a major advantage of a diabetic diet. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, even losing a moderate amount of excess weight can decrease the risk of developing heart disease and type-2, or adult onset, diabetes. Since a pound of fat is equivalent to 3,500 calories, reducing your daily caloric intake by 500 calories can help you lose a pound every week.
Blood Glucose Control
Eating a diabetic diet can help you control your blood glucose levels, decreasing the incidence of high blood sugar that can damage organs and nerves. MayoClinic.com explains that when you consume too many calories and too much fat, your body's blood sugar levels increase in response. This condition, known as hyperglycemia, can damage your kidneys and lead to permanent damage to the nerves of the hands and feet. Avoiding excess fat and calories, therefore, helps maintain more stable blood sugar levels and provides your body with a more continuous flow of energy, another big advantage of a diabetic diet.
Significant Food Restriction
Certain fad-type diets such as a low-carbohydrate diet are sometimes suggested for individuals with diabetes. Internist Dr. Tim Harlan explains in the "Huffington Post" that research suggests low-carbohydrate diets may actually increase your risk of developing diabetes. If you already have diabetes, he continues, consuming a less restrictive food plan that includes moderate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats can help you lose weight and keep it off. This can lead to better control of blood glucose levels.
Decreased Food Choices
Having to control your blood glucose levels requires that you avoid consuming certain foods, which may be a disadvantage to some individuals. Even if you aren't adhering to a fad diet, there will be foods that are more likely to raise your blood glucose levels. These include highly processed foods that contain white flour, excess sugar and fat. These foods can contribute to obesity, which can make controlling your blood sugar more difficult and increase your risk of chronic diseases related to diabetes.
References
- MedlinePlus: Diabetic Diet
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Meal Plans and a Healthy Diet
- "Huffington Post"; Low-Carb Diets Linked With Type 2 Diabetes; Dr. Tim Harlan; 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diabetes Diet - Weight Control for Type 2 Diabetes
- MayoClinic.com: Diabetes Diet: Create Your Healthy Eating Plan
