There is no special diet for diabetes, but you can make a difference in your blood glucose control through your food choices. The foods that are good for you are good for everyone. Several areas of your diet — including the three macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat, and protein), fiber, and sodium — play important roles in controlling blood glucose levels. To keep your blood glucose levels near normal, you need to balance your carbohydrate intake, insulin level (either produced by your body or injected), and physical activity. By familiarizing yourself with each of these actors, you will be able to achieve the optimal goal of normal blood glucose levels.
What role does fat play?
Fat is in margarine, butter, oil, salad dressings, nuts, seeds, milk, meat, snack foods, and desserts. There are three types of fats: saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Every diet should contain less of the saturated fats, which can be found in meats, egg yolks, dairy products and hard shortenings. These fats can raise your blood cholesterol levels. The best choice among fats are monounsaturated fats, which can be found in olive, peanut, and canola oils. The polyunsaturated fats found in corn, soybean, and safflower oils are also good choices.
After you eat, fat travels into the bloodstream. Fat is an energy source, so therefore you will need insulin to store fat in the cells of your body. Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats included with meals, in moderation, will help break down the food you eat to be used as energy.
What does protein do for my blood sugar control?
The body uses protein for growth, maintenance, and energy. Protein is found in meats, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, beans, peas, lentils and peanut butter. Starches and vegetables also have small amounts of protein. Lean meats and low-fat dairy products are the better diet choices to help prevent high blood cholesterol levels.
As you begin to eat for better control of your diabetes, protein will become an essential part of your diet. Protein serves as a blood sugar stabilizer. When eaten in combination with carbohydrates, protein will prevent your blood sugar levels from rising too high or falling too low.
What about fiber?
Besides the beneficial role that fiber plays in relieving constipation, fiber is also helpful by filling you up during meals and lowering blood cholesterol levels. Fiber can be found in whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Since high fiber foods provide some extra bulk to your diet, these foods break down much more slowly, which helps to stabilize your blood sugar levels. By including high fiber foods in your diet, you will be improving your health and also gaining control over your blood sugar level.
What about sodium?
Sodium does not control blood sugar levels directly, but it does play a role with the association of hypertension and diabetes. It may be essential for you to follow a low-sodium diet. Do not use a salt substitute containing potassium without checking with your health care professional. Eat more fresh foods and less canned, processed items.
Can I have carbohydrates?
Yes, everyone needs carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are our main energy source. Carbohydrate choices include bread, grains, and starchy vegetables; fruits; dairy products; and sweets. Knowing which carbohydrates are healthier choices will keep your blood glucose in better control. These foods break down into sugar in our blood, which is then stored and used for energy. When you have diabetes, you are unable to transport the sugar in the blood to its storage area. As a result, too much carbohydrate can result in high blood sugar levels, and too little can result in low blood sugar levels.
What is carbohydrate counting and how does it work?
Carbohydrate counting involves determining the amount of carbohydrates that is right for you and distributing that amount evenly over your meals to stabilize your blood glucose levels. The focus is on the total carbohydrates consumed rather than the source. Reading food labels and becoming familiar with serving sizes will help you achieve your recommended meal plan. One serving equals 15 grams of carbohydrates. A registered dietitian can help you learn more about carbohydrate counting and how many grams you need per day.
How often can I exercise?
As often as you want as long as proper adjustments are made. Exercise improves fitness, increases insulin sensitivity, maintains bone health, decreases cardiovascular risk factors, helps in weight management, and improves sleep patterns. Before starting an exercise program, you should be cleared by your doctor. Exercise does affect blood glucose levels, which is why it is always important to check levels before and after activities. Exercise includes anything that gets your heart beating at its target heart rate. Exercise should be daily if possible, but three times per week for 20 to 30 minutes is adequate. Exercise can be done at anytime during the day. A registered dietitian can help you develop a meal plan that complements your exercise program.
As you work to achieve optimal blood glucose control, it is important that you recognize the roles that exercise and each area of the diet play. Contact a registered dietitian to help you develop a meal plan that is right for your lifestyle.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/29/2006...#8535
