Diabetic Diet Doesn’t Have to Be Restrictive

The biggest misconception about Diabetes and the Diabetic Diet is that it requires strict elimination of sugar from what the person eats. That simply is not the case. Current research and successful testing with the disease has shown that the most important concept is to carefully monitor blood sugar levels and to adjust the consumption of carbohydrates in order to keep those levels from rising or falling sharply. This is the main goal behind what has come to be known as the Diabetic Diet.

Those who have been diagnosed with diabetes know that their bodies have trouble making and using insulin, which is the body’s normal response to high blood sugar levels. For this reason, the Diabetic Diet focuses on maintaining blood sugar levels by the use of several strategies. The first of these is, of course, to limit sweets. Refined white sugar is absorbed into the blood stream all too quickly and has very little nutritional value. Substituting fresh fruit can offer the same sweet treat with a much better benefit. Because frequently eating is promoted with this meal plan, it is important to choose snacks carefully.

Timing of carbohydrate intake is also very important. A consistent level of sugar needs to be maintained in the blood stream, which means that the right portion of complex carbohydrates must be consumed at each meal, with consistent intervals between meals. Good carbohydrates include whole-grain foods, fruits, and vegetables. Sugar-free protein bars can be added for variety on a limited basis. Other great snacks for this meal plan include natural peanut butter, low-fat cheese or cottage cheese, and yogurt. Unsalted nuts can also be a great mid-day snack.

Another mistake that many people make when considering a Diabetic Diet is thinking that if they cut out white sugar, they can eat as much as they want. Unfortunately, that is far from true. "Sugar-free" does not mean that the food does not contain carbohydrates, which also has a large effect on blood sugar levels. For this reason, portion control is very important to the Diabetic Diet. One should not be afraid to weigh or measure portions of food while they are adjusting to this or any other diet plan. For instance, not all slices of bread are of the same weight as any others; one brand may just have a much larger effect on carb-consumption than estimated.

Dining out with diabetes can be challenging, but it does not have to be an ordeal. Make sure to plan ahead and do some research on your intended restaurant well ahead of time. Do not be hesitant to ask your server for specifics on how certain menu items are prepared. If she does not immediately know, she will certainly offer to inquire with the chef. Ask for any sauces to be served separately and on the side. Dining out is another instance where portion control comes into play. Ask the server to bring a doggy bag along with the meal. That way the entrée can be immediately portioned off into a reasonable amount to be enjoyed at the restaurant, with the rest to go home for another time.

Following these tips will help those with diabetes and their family members learn how to enjoy meals together while still adopting a healthy approach to eating. Even those not at risk of the disease will benefit greatly from the reduced sugar, fat, and processed food that is so typical of the American diet. Additionally, reduced portions are a good idea for everyone, and when combined with the Diabetic Diet, are sure to result in maintaining a healthy weight.

Learn more about the Diabetic Diet for long-term health and real weight loss results!