Diabetic Diet For People With Diabetes

Carbs In Your Diabetes Diet

Carbohydrates in your Diet

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder, which causes abnormalities in the glucose levels in the blood due to either deficient insulin production or lack of its action on the target cells. Since this disorder results in high glucose levels, carbohydrate intake regulation forms a major part of the management. This is especially true in case of Type 1 Diabetes patients. Since Type 1 is characterized by deficient insulin production, the glucose levels have to be carefully monitored according to the dose of insulin the patient receives to prevent both, very high or very low blood glucose levels, both of which can be fatal. In case of Type 2 Diabetes, proper regulation of the diet can control the sugar levels adequately enough that the need for medication can be eliminated and complications kept at bay for long periods.

Earlier, carbohydrates were an anathema to a diabetic diet. Patients diagnosed with diabetes were recommended a diet that avoided carbohydrates completely. However, recent research have shown that total restriction of carbohydrates is unwarranted for diabetics. Since a large part of the energy required by the body is derived from carbohydrates, a sudden switch over to fats and proteins as an energy source is fraught with complications, especially in diabetics, who suffer from kidney abnormalities as a complication of the parent disease.

By regulating the amount and the types of carbohydrates in the diet, these basic components may enjoy a prominent place in the diet of a diabetic, allowing him/her to lead a healthy life. To develop a sane approach to the amount of carbohydrates in a diabetic diet, it is first important to understand the types of carbohydrates that are a part of the human diet.

Carbs can be classified into the three following types

Starches – Starches include peas, beans, potatoes and whole grains like oats, barley and rice.

Sugars – Sugar can the natural sugars found in milk and fruits or the additives in food.

Fiber – Fiber includes roughage found in fruits and vegetables.

A rough rule of thumb to keep in mind when you are on a diabetic diet is that 13 grams of carbohydrates per 100 calories are considered ideal. This roughly accounts for 50% of the total calorie intake. In addition, 2.5 to 5 grams of fiber per serving is recommended.

Type 1 Diabetes

In the case of Type 1 Diabetes, the amount of total sugar intake is to be strictly balanced against the insulin dose that the patient receives. This includes sugar in both the natural and added forms, so that if a patient knows that he is going to consume an extra portion of one form, he has to balance it out by reducing the amount in another form. However, adequate amounts of starches and fiber are recommended, with an emphasis on the consumption of whole grains, fresh raw vegetables and fruits. This not only ensures that the blood sugar levels remain steady over a long period, as these foods have a low glycaemic index but also ensures the intake of the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals which are found in sufficient quantities in fruits and vegetables. Also, less amounts of fat guards against high blood cholesterol levels.

Type 2 Diabetes

In the case of Type 2 Diabetes, the same holds true, although these patients are allowed to ‘cheat’ sometimes because their raised blood sugar levels are not due to the deficient quantities of insulin. They too are advised large quantities of fiber rich carbohydrates with a low glycaemic index, but may be allowed occasional helpings of refined flour with added sugar, just as long as they don’t make a habit of it!

Finally it is important for both groups to eat adequate amounts of proteins and unsaturated fats as per dietary recommendations. Diabetics need not totally exclude carbohydrates from the diet as long as a well informed, medically backed and judicious approach is maintained. As always, do consult with your doctor or a licensed medical professional before starting any diet.

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Pre-Diabetes Diet
While diabetes is a major non-communicable disease, it is spreading like a global epidemic. A change in lifestyle is to be largely blamed for this. Diabetes tends to creep up on people. Broadly classified into type one and two, type one is characterized by its sudden onset, perhaps following a viral infection.

The case is entirely different in type two. A disease characterized by increasing resistance to the effect of insulin, it is generally accompanied by obesity, with poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle lurking in the background. More importantly, it is preceded by a condition called pre-diabetes, sometimes for as long as ten years.

Pre Diabetes is a condition characterized by an impaired glucose tolerance or a raised blood sugar level, which has not crossed the normal limit. The fasting sugar level maybe 100 to 125 mg/dl. In addition, the typical symptoms of diabetes like frequent thirst, urination and hunger, coupled with weight loss are generally absent. There maybe abnormal weight gain in some cases or some predisposing conditions like poly-cystic ovarian syndrome.

The other symptoms of pre-diabetes may include frequent vaginal, bladder or skin infections, commonly due to yeasts, slow healing of cuts and wounds and dark pigmentation of elbows, feet, neck and breasts.

People with these symptoms of pre-diabetes generally develop type 2 diabetes over a period of five to ten years in the absence of any preventive measures. A few changes in the life style and diet are found to be more effective than medication in most cases of pre-diabetes.

The three most important measures to be taken to prevent the development of full blown type 2 diabetes from pre-diabetes include the following:
- Maintaining an ideal weight
- Adequate exercise
- Healthy diet.
With a healthy diet and adequate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight is easy. Hence, diet plays a major role in the control of blood sugar in pre-diabetes. The ideal diet in pre-diabetes is rich in complex carbohydrates, vegetables and fruits, contains adequate quantities of protein and unsaturated fats, while curbing the amounts of simple sugars, red meat and saturated fats.

The ideal pre-diabetic diet contains the following complex carbohydrates: whole grains, legumes and pulses, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, beans, peas, tomatoes, egg-plant, okra, carrots and yams. Vegetables rich in natural sugars like beet and corn are to be eaten in moderate quantities. Fruits like citrus fruits, berries of all kinds, apples, dried apricots are advised, with fruits rich in natural sugars like mangoes, bananas and grapes are to be limited.

Protein in adequate quantities is a most, to be consumed in the forms of skinless chicken or turkey and oily fish like salmon, herring, sardines and tuna, ideally either grilled, steamed or braised. Fats in the form of mono- and poly-unsaturated fats like olive oil, sunflower seed or canola oil are advised as opposed to fats of animal origin. Simple sugars and junk foods are best avoided.

With the dietary changes mentioned above and an adequate exercise regimen, pre-diabetes can be limited merely to a warning of diabetes and the development of the full blown disease can be indefinitely postponed.
Safe Diet for Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes
Diet and Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a pregnancy related condition, akin to pregnancy induced hypertension. It is a condition detected in pregnant women, generally in the second trimester. This condition carries several risks for both the mother and the baby. Since pregnant women require excess insulin to take care of their higher blood sugar levels, to provide the baby with adequate nutrition, any deficiency in this results in high blood sugar levels, causing diabetes.

A woman is diagnosed to have gestational diabetes if she develops high blood sugar levels only when pregnant and never otherwise. Although gestational diabetes ends with the completion of pregnancy, these women are generally at a higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus earlier in life.

High risk factors for developing gestational diabetes include
- A history of diabetes in the family
- Obesity
- A history of having delivered a baby with a weight more than 10 lbs.
Women are generally screened for gestational diabetes by the health care providers in the 24^th to 26^th week of pregnancy by conducting a glucose tolerance test, in which the pregnant woman is given an oral glucose drink. Her blood sugar is then assessed after one hour. A woman with abnormally high values is further subjected to a test 2 to 4 hours later. A persistence of a high blood glucose level indicates gestational diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes Risks

The risks associated with gestational diabetes, both to the mother and the child include
- Since the baby is subjected to constant high sugar levels, the size of the baby is large, often necessitating a caesarean section delivery.
- There is higher incidence and severity of jaundice in the new born.
- There maybe low blood mineral values in the newborn, resulting in twitching and cramps.
- These babies are at a higher risk of developing obesity and diabetes themselves.
- There is greater morbidity in the mother due to interventional delivery.
The diet plays an important role in managing gestational diabetes as well as the necessary medications, generally insulin. The main point to remember is not to let the blood sugar swing too much in either direction, too high or too low sugar levels can lead to severe complications.

Since pregnant women require nearly 1200 extra calories to ensure the growth of the baby in the 2^nd and 3^rd trimesters, the calorie intake need to be evenly spaced out throughout the day to prevent fluctuation in the blood sugar levels. Like the diets for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, the energy derived from the three major food groups has to evenly proportioned.

Carbohydrates

The major energy has to be derived from the carbohydrate group, again keeping in mind that the complex carbohydrates prevent fluctuations in the blood sugar levels. Hence whole grains will form the bulk of the carbohydrate intake. Fresh vegetables provide micro-nutrients necessary for the baby’s growth. Starchy vegetables are best avoided and the intake of sugary foods also needs close monitoring.

Fat and Protein

Low fat dairy and vegetable oils provide the necessary fat content, but it is important to reduce the intake of saturated fats and cholesterol. Protein intake is a must for the development of the baby, but this protein should be derived from lean meat or fish. Fat should be trimmed from meat, as much as possible.

The diet should adhere as closely as possible to the recommendations of your doctor, your doctor who will generally personalize the diet depending on the height and weight of the patient.

With evenly spaced out meals, rich in complex carbohydrates,with adequate protein and necessary fats and micro-nutrients, and with regular monitoring of blood sugar, one can have a healthy baby even if one is diagnosed with gestational diabetes. As always, consult with your doctor before you start any diet. This is very important. You doctor will be the one that tailors the diet to suit your condition.

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Vegetarian Diet for Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder in the US and 20 million Americans are believed to be suffering from this non-communicable disorder. This amounts to almost seven percent of the population, making it a leading cause of morbidity. A change in the life style and changes in diet are the main causes for the disorder. A gradual shift to sedentary life styles, where a person spends almost ten hours sitting at a desk, and then being too tired for any exercise is the curse of the modern work culture. The same holds true for the diet, in which hardly anyone has the time or energy to cook, serve and eat wholesome food, with an increasing propensity for `grabbing a bite on the run`, which means eating fast food. All this coupled with the severe stress, be it at work or just the commute to and from there is a sure receipe for disaster, which is exactly what diabetes is.

Adult onset diabetes, or type 2 diabetes, is a condition in which the body produces sufficient insulin, but the cells become resistant to it, resulting in high blood sugar levels. It is generally seen in association with obesity and weight control can result in a significant drop in blood sugar levels and a better control of blood sugar as well, and hence obesity maybe regarded as a cause. The primary management of type 2 diabetes consists of diet control, regular exercise and blood sugar lowering drugs if necessary. In fact, pre diabetes or early cases may be managed by diet control and exercise alone.

Vegetarian Diet for Diabetics

A vegetarian diet has been regarded as a good diet for diabetes since times immemorial, finding a place in many ancient treatises on medicine. This diet may be ovo-lacto- vegetarian or a pure vegan diet. Ovo-lacto-vegetarians eat eggs and dairy products but avoid other meat or fish. Vegans limit themselves to eating products got only from plants.

A vegetarian diet is good for the control of sugar and as many diabetics have an associated high cholesterol level, restriction of animal fats and meat means not only a lower calorie intake, but also reduction in the intake of saturated fat and cholesterol. In addition, a low fat diet prevents the sharp swings in blood sugar and maintains it at a steady level. A low fat diet also reduces the load on the liver and the kidneys, both of which are affected in diabetes.

Reduction in food of animal origin also reduces the chance of protein overload, thus relieving the kidneys of excess burden. In addition, sodium and potassium levels can be better controlled, relieving any concomitant hypertension.

However, a vegetarian diet is not a magic wand for diabetes. Certain precautions need to be taken and they include the following:
- Simple sugars need to be avoided for they are the ones responsible for a direct sugar overload and ketosis.
- Under the guise of carbohydrates, excess calories are prone to sneak in, and this must be avoided by a careful calorie count.
- None of the major food groups should be totally avoided under the guise of a vegan diet.
- Mixing of several food groups, especially legumes, cereals and pulses should be done to fulfill the protein requirement.
Thus, a prudent vegetarian diet which includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and legumes, low fat milk, and unsaturated fats like olive oil and nuts is deemed to be the best for controlling blood glucose levels in diabetics. A diet which includes all the food groups in adequate quantities and has the required amount of calories, is the ultimate in diets for all diabetics.

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Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is much more widespread than type 1.About three million people in the USA are believed to be affected by this chronic metabolic disorder. It forms part of the CHAOS disorder, along with hypertension and coronary artery disease and is also related to obesity and syndrome X. Since it is such a widespread disorder, it becomes imperative to be well acquainted with its symptoms, so that early detection and management is possible.

Pre diabetes is a recognized condition in which the blood glucose levels of the affected individual are on the higher side of the normal spectrum, but lower than the levels for clinical disease. Also, the specific tests for diabetes like glycosylated haemoglobin show good control values. However, it is important to identify certain susceptible groups. They include the obese, people with a strong hereditary history of diabetes, and people with poor eating habits.Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, and with a history of gestational diabetes also have a greater tendency to develop this condition.

The peculiarity of type 2 diabetes is that people can have it for years without being aware of it. The classic triad of increased thirst, urination and hunger may not be as overtly present as in type 1 diabetes. The rapid weight loss, again so prominently manifest in type 1 may also not be present. Read our previous guide for more information on Type 1 diabetes symptoms.

However, this does not mean that these symptoms are never present and any individual who arouses even the remotest clinical suspicion should be thoroughly investigated. Thus, while looking for the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, in addition to looking for increased thirst, urination and hunger, it is important to remember that these patients may have a history of either weight gain or rapid weight loss in the recent past.

Other significant symptoms include a history of slow healing of cuts and sores, especially of the feet, repeated yeast infections of the skin and vagina, repeated itching of the groin and vulval areas, erectile dysfunction, blurring of vision and extreme fatigue.

Like in type1 diabetes, the manifestations of complications may be seen in the form of dehydration with extremely high blood glucose levels, called hyperglycaemic hyperketotic syndrome, which presents as nausea, vomiting, headaches and loss of consciousness. In individuals with poor control of blood sugar levels, sometimes called `brittle diabetes`, the blood sugar levels may dip dangerously low, causing hypoglycaemic coma.

Type 2 diabetes also affects various end organs resulting in their malfunction. In the eyes, this is seen as diabetic retinopathy, causing gradual blurring of vision and sometimes blindness. In addition, the incidence of cataract is also increased. The hearing and sense of balance is also affected earlier than non-diabetics. Fungal infections of the nose and paranasal sinuses may occur and the external ear is affected by a particularly virulent bacterial infection called ‘malignant otitis externa’.

There is greater chance of developing atherosclerosis, which results in heart attacks. Also due to nerve damage, these individuals are subject to ‘painless heart-attacks’, putting them at a higher risk of sudden death. Type 2 diabetes also complicates strokes and is also a risk factor for the development of hypertension.

Nervous damage results in loss of sensations, especially in the lower extremities, causing diabetic foot with slow or non- healing ulcers. These may lead to gangrene which may require amputation of the limb. In male patients, damage to the nerves can cause erectile dysfunction

As can be deduced from the above discussion, type 2 diabetes can make slow inroads on a person, sometimes resulting in fatal complications. Hence, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to keep this disorder at bay.
Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

What are the Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes, also called insulin dependent or juvenile diabetes,is a metabolic disorder affecting mainly children, teenagers and young adults. Since it is a long term disorder with serious complications, an early diagnosis and proper management becomes imperative.It is therefore very important to know the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, so that early recognition and proper care is possible.

Since type 1 diabetes is caused by a deficiency of insulin production, it results in a high blood glucose level, which is responsible for the symptoms . Excess glucose in the blood causes it to be excreted in urine, causing polyuria, or frequent urination. This also results in dehydration in the body, causing increased thirst or polydipsia. Since glucose is unable to enter the cells, there is a constant `hungry` signal causing polyphagia. This is the classical triad of diabetes type 1. Since the body is unable to utilize glucose for nourishment, it turns to other sources like fat stores, resulting in rapid weight loss. So, the triad of polyphagia, polydipsia and polyuria, often with an associated weight loss is indicative of type 1 diabetes.

If these symptoms are not detected early, complications may result, with their own train of attendant symptoms. A very high blood sugar level in undetected or untreated cases of type 1 diabetes, can cause symptoms of dehydration, which include dizziness, blurring of vision, tingling in the fingers and toes and headaches. Since the body is unable to use glucose as a source of energy, it turns to other sources like the fat and protein stores. This causes the partially metabolized fats and proteins to accumulate in the blood, a condition called ketoacidosis. This is characterized by headaches, vomiting and stomach ache, which may well mimic a viral infection.

If there is a poor regulation of the blood sugar levels, or if a type 1 diabetic misses a meal while on insulin or undertakes any vigorous activity without sufficient food intake, it results in dangerously low blood sugar levels called hypoglycemia. This is manifested as weakness, increased sweating, tremors, cold clammy skin, loss of consciousness and hypoglycemic coma, which in turn can result in permanent brain damage if not treated promptly.

Since type 1 diabetes is a chronic disorder, it stands to reason that it adversely affects other organs in the body. The organs chiefly affected are the eye, the lower limbs, the kidneys, the heart, and the intestines. This again leads to symptoms peculiar to the affected organ. Visual symptoms include gradual blurring of vision and ultimately blindness. In the lower limbs, there maybe ulcers which refuse to heal and which may ultimately result in gangrene, necessitating amputation. Frequent urinary tract infections which may lead to chronic renal failure are the kidney manifestations. In the case of the heart, there maybe anginal pain, full blown heart attack or congestive cardiac failure, while recurrent diarrhea, or constipation or mal-absorption maybe the gastrointestinal symptoms.

To recap, type 1 diabetes results in symptoms inherent to the disease, or the symptoms of its complications. An early recognition and appropriate treatment form the basis of controlling this disorder for a productive life.
Type 1 Diabetes Overview
Diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic condition in which there is a disturbance in energy production in the body. A little background knowledge about the way in which the human body breaks down and utilizes the food we eat is essential in understanding this condition. Understanding this will further highlight the role, diet and dietary changes necessarily play in the management of this rather complex condition.

Any food consumed by the human body is converted into its basic components -
- Starches and complex sugars are converted to simple sugars – mainly glucose
- Fats into fatty acids
- Cholesterol and proteins into amino acids.
Diabetes Mellitus interferes with the absorption, storage and utilization of sugars. When carbohydrates are broken down, they are mainly absorbed as glucose and glucose is the sole way that all cells in the body get nutrition. The maintenance of this glucose level in the blood as well as its distribution and utilization by all the cells is controlled by the hormone insulin which is secreted by the cells of the Islets of Langerhans in the tail of the pancreas. If there is any interference either in the production or utilization of insulin, it results in an impaired use of glucose by the cells of the body, resulting in an increased level of glucose in the blood, deposition in some organs and excretion in urine. This is called Diabetes Mellitus.

Depending on whether the production of insulin or its effect on the cells is hampered, Diabetes maybe classified as either Type 1 or Type 2. In Type 1 Diabetes, there is insufficient production of insulin due to damage to the islets of Langerhans which can be due to many reasons. This type is also called early onset diabetes because it generally occurs in the younger population. It is also called Insulin dependent because treatment involves insulin injection to replace the deficient hormone.

Diet management is an important aspect of treatment because a co-ordination between the sugar intake and the dose of insulin is necessary to maintain a steady blood glucose level. In addition, since many of the patients are growing children, a proper diet is necessary to maintain proper growth.

Since these patients have to take a dose of insulin to regulate their blood sugar the amount of sugar in the diet, both in the direct and indirect forms has to be regulated. A fixed amount as per the insulin dose is allowed. If an excess amount of sugar is ingested, the insulin dose is to be increased or else the remaining calories in the diet have to be reduced. This specially holds true for children who occasionally want to overeat treats, say when it is a birthday or special occasions like Christmas or Halloween. There is no need to absolutely forbid all sweets but the total calories in the diet have to be reduced accordingly.

After regulating the total calories in the diet, it is time to pay attention to the diet specifics. Since patients of Type 1 Diabetes are insulin deficient, they are unable to store the excess sugar that they ingest. Hence, instead of simple sugars, it is better if their diets comprise of foods that are made up of complex sugars which have a low glycaemic index, that is they release sugar slowly in the blood.

The ideal diet for a Type 1 diabetic comprise of the following:
- Complex carbohydrates like whole grains and beans up to 6 servings a day.
- Vegetables, especially of the green and yellow variety, up to 3 or 5 servings a day.
- Fruits, to be eaten whole as they contain a lot of fiber, up to 2 or 5 servings a day. Fruit juices have to be non-sweetened.
- Milk, which has to be low fat, up to 2 or 3 servings.
- Meat and fish, up to 2 or 3 servings a day. The meat has to be lean and all visible fat has to be trimmed.
- The intake of high glycemic index foods like sweets and alcohol has to be limited.
However, it is imperative to remember that while blood sugar levels should not be very high, they should not be allowed to dip too low as this can lead to hypoglycaemic coma which is life threatening. Hence, skipping meals despite of a regular dose of insulin is a strict no-no.

In conclusion, it can be said that a constant and healthy diet, rich in complex carbohydrates with a proper dose of insulin can keep the blood glucose levels very well regulated in Type 1 Diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes and Diet
One of the components of syndromeX, Diabetes Mellitus or commonly called as Type 2 Diabetes now occurs in epidemic proportions in the world. Although this condition was traditionally called Adult Onset Diabetes, a disturbing trend towards occurrence in younger and younger age groups has been noticed in recent times. As always, a sedentary lifestyle with bad dietary habits seems to be the chief culprit.

A little of the aetiological and pathological background of the condition helps to understand the specific changes to be made in the diet for its prevention and control. Diabetes Mellitus or Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to utilize glucose(the primary energy giving sugar) properly at a cellular level, resulting in a high concentration in the blood and excretion in urine.

This excess glucose may also be concentrated in inappropriate end organs, causing symptoms. The proper use of glucose at the cellular level is controlled by insulin, a hormone secreted by the endocrine part of the pancreas. Any pathology in either the secretion or the utilization of this hormone results in diabetes mellitus. In addition, diabetics have a higher blood sugar level, which shows a tendency to slow reduction, following a meal, indicating that there is impaired storage of excess sugar as well.

Since the primary pathology of Diabetes Mellitus lies in an abnormally high blood sugar level, the importance of diet control in this disease has been recognized since ancient times. It is now a generally recognized fact that a proper diet is not only the first line of management but also the surest way to prevent its occurrence.

The debate of the proportion of carbohydrate in a diabetic diet is still raging. However, it has now been recognized that it is not only the quantity, but also the quality of carbohydrates in the diet that count. Since diabetics have impaired storage of excess sugar, they have to protect themselves against rapid spiking as well as rapid fall of blood sugar, the latter being mainly true in patients who are on insulin therapy as a rapid fall in blood sugar levels is life- threatening. Hence, a switch from three big meals to five or six spaced out ones helps in maintaining sugar levels at a constant.In addition, consumption of foods with low glycemic indices like whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits also ensures against rapid spiking of blood sugar levels, in contrast to consumption of high index foods like refined flours and simple sugars. Amongst the simple sugars, fructose, which has the highest index is the one to be avoided.

Turning to fats, contrary to popular conception, all fat need not be avoided, but the cutting down of saturated fats definitely has a place in an ideal diabetic diet. Consumption of mono-and poly-unsaturated fat in moderate amounts is advocated to prevent deficiency of the fat soluble vitamins, mainly A and D.Saturated fats found mainly in whole dairy as well as hydrogenated fats definitely need to be pruned, ditto with animal fats. Hence, vegetable oils like canola, olive and flax seed have a definite place in a diabetic diet, unlike full fat milk, cream and hydrogenated and re-fried oils. It is also imperative to remember that most diabetics may have hypercholesterolemia and the above mentioned pattern of fat consumption benefits this condition as well, in addition to preventing ischemic heart disease.

Initially the replacement diet, in which carbohydrate in a diabetic diet was replaced by protein, calorie for calorie was advocated, but now it has been observed that excess energy derived from protein invites the onset of ketosis in diabetes. In addition, excess consumption of animal protein also causes the development of insulin resistance. Hence, protein consumption in diabetes should be moderate, and it should be derived mainly from lean meat, fish or should be of vegetable origin, like pulses, nuts or low fat dairy products like cheeses.

Specific diets for diabetes include the following:
- Pritkin Diet
- Low calorie diet
- High fiber diet
- Paleolithic diet
- Vegan diet
Like the rest of the population, diabetics should maintain an ideal weight, have a minimum of 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day, plenty of fiber and several small meals to maintain a constant sugar level.

An important point to remember is to also control the intake of salt and preserved food as most diabetics tend to be concomitant hypertensives. Adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water as well as a diet sufficient in micro nutrients goes a long way in maintaining a healthy blood sugar level.

Diabetes need not spell doom as far a tasty diet is concerned. Simple changes in the diet and keeping things in perspective go a long way in not only preventing but managing this condition as well.
1200 Calorie Diabetic Diet

Diabetics are recommended to follow a low-calorie diet in order to stabilize blood sugar. This is because most of the calories absorbed by the body come from carbohydrates and they are in turn transformed into glucose. Therefore, to reduce the excessive build up of glucose in the blood, a low calorie diet is focused on speeding up digestion and reduce carbohydrate buildup.

One of the most common diets for diabetics is the 1200-calorie diabetic diet. It is a low-calorie diet that increases intake of protein and fiber. It also minimizes the absorption of carbohydrates by means of avoiding starch. Through this diet, diabetics are able to utilize sugars better. Among the benefits of this diet include stable blood sugar levels and significant weight reduction.

Am I a good candidate for the 1200 Calorie Diet?

The 1200 calorie diabetic diet is best for people that are diagnosed with borderline diabetes and gestational diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are required to practice maintenance options so that they will not be able to acquire the disease. They can only prevent the onset of diabetes through diet management and eating low calorie meals. They can follow the 1200-calorie diet for a particular time frame until they are able to work on higher calorie diets, such as the 1500-calorie diet.

Women with gestational diabetes also benefit from the 1200 calorie diet. This diet plan helps bring down their sugar levels without putting their nutrient intake at risk. They also get to reduce weight naturally during pregnancy through this diet plan.

1200 Calorie Diet Plan

The main goal of the 1200-calorie diabetic diet is to have 50% carbohydrates, 20% proteins and 30% fats during each day. There are a lot of meal schedules in this diet, from 6-7 meals (including snacks). Fiber-rich foods should also be present during the diet and must be paired along with the foods that contain carbohydrates, protein and fat.

Breakfast serves as the most important meal for the day in this diet plan. Breakfast should be packed with good carbohydrates, fiber and sugar. Among the best foods to serve during breakfast is a bowl of whole cereal, skim milk and grapefruit. This set will keep the stomach full most of the day and speed up digestion through foods that are easy to break down.

Lunch can be a combination of carbohydrates and protein. A turkey sandwich in whole grain bread is a good main course. It may be followed by a small apple and 2 glasses of water so that the sandwich can be easily digested. Lettuce is also a great source of fiber, while two 2 teaspoons of mayonnaise can serve as the source of fat.

Fish can be served for dinner. It can also be paired with 2/3 cup of brown rice, steamed broccoli and ½ cup zucchini. The greens provide fiber content, while brown rice offers enough carbohydrates for the rest of the night.

Snacks are also important in a 1200-calorie diet. Snacks may include a banana and 6 ounces of low-fat yogurt. Banana is rich in potassium that also provides muscle energy, while yogurt offers lactose. Artificial sweeteners may be used to add flavor to yogurt drinks.

There are many more varieties of 1200-calorie diet plans and they can be made more exciting through some great tasting recipes. By meeting the requirements of this diet, diabetics will be able to enjoy life as usual and even enjoy other benefits such as faster weight loss and a better muscle tone.

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Type 2 Diabetes Diet Plan

Type 2 diabetes is a more common condition than Type 1 diabetes. People with Type 2 diabetes suffer from insulin resistance but do not require insulin injections just to keep their blood sugar levels stabilized.

This type of diabetes is mostly acquired through poor diet and over consumption of foods high in sugar and carbohydrates. Thus, it can be properly managed through a proper diet and lifestyle changes. Diet plans for this condition are less stringent can be supplemented by exercise and regular water intake.

Effects of Type 2 Diabetes

While Type 2 diabetes is much easier to control, it also imposes certain health dangers. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 deals more with non-ketonic hyperglycemia. In this condition, patients with the disease may fall into a coma due to accumulation of glucose levels in the bloodstream. Other risks that may be triggered by the presence of Type 2 diabetes include heart attacks, hypertension, amputation and kidney failure.

Count those Calories

People with Type 2 diabetes can follow 1800 – 2000 calorie diet plans. Ofcourse always check with your doctors and only start any diet after you discuss it with your doctor and get their approval. The goal of these diet plans is to maintain blood glucose levels and prevent them from further increasing.

Carbohydrates should be monitored every meal serving. This is because carbohydrates are transformed into blood sugar. Carbohydrates directly increase blood glucose levels, and they may pose dangers during their peak.

One good way to prevent hyperglycemia in Type 2 diabetics is by dividing the carbohydrates in budget amounts. Women can consume up to 45 grams of carbohydrates per meal, while men can eat up to 60 grams per serving. Such servings of carbohydrates are enough to provide energy that will last for the day.

Sugars may likewise be limited to 15 grams per serving each meal. Simple sugars, like lactose from milk and fructose from fruits are recommended, while table sugar and other complex sugars should be avoided. Artificial sweeteners may be used in moderate amounts.

Fat consumptions should as well be limited. While fat is not transformed into sugar, it slows down digestion and metabolism. Consuming less fat in food per serving helps a lot in increasing metabolic rate. Foods become much easier to digest and eventually flushed out of the system.

Foods that are high in fiber are recommended in a Type 2 diabetic diet. Fiber from vegetables, fruits and whole grains are digested faster than carbohydrates and proteins. As much as possible consume high-fiber foods in each meal to aid better digestion.

Proteins are also imperative in this diet. Proteins should be consumed in moderate amounts as excess amounts may be transformed into sugar as well.

Exercising when on Type 2 Diet

When following a Type 2 diabetic diet, it is likewise important to maintain regular exercise and workout schedules. Cardiovascular exercises are recommended to keep the heart strong and working. Persons in this condition are more at risk to heart disease, thus they are encouraged to keep their hearts strong and functional.

Strength-training exercises are also recommended in a Type 2 diabetic diet. Strength training exercises transform proteins into muscle, and sweat out sugars through metabolism. Drinking adequate amounts of water after exercise is as well a must; this prevents dehydration and maintains stable blood glucose levels.