Diabetes is a health disorder where the body fails to produce a sufficient amount of insulin, which is a hormone that converts sugar, starch and other types of foods into energy which we need for our day to day life. Diabetes can be a serious health problem if it is not properly controlled and treated. A diabetic menu plays a very important role in keeping a person’s blood sugar levels and diabetes under control as well as living a healthy life.
When it comes to eating, a diabetic does not necessarily need any special diabetic foods as much as he or she needs to eat healthy foods and at consistent intervals. In other words, eat the right foods at the right time. This will help to keep an individual’s blood sugar level at the place that it needs to be. A diabetic menu should contain lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fiber and protein. Carbohydrates need to be monitored, as carbs turn into sugar when the body breaks them down. High levels of sugar, fat, salt and alcohol should be avoided. It is especially important for diabetics not to skip meals and to not over eat at meals or over snack between meals to maintain the right blood sugar level.
When it comes to meal planning, a diabetic should consult with their physician or a licensed nutritionist or dietitian who is familiar with diabetes. There are also diabetic cookbooks as well as diabetic recipes that are available online.
One guideline that can be used for diabetic menus is the Diabetes Food Pyramid that was developed by the American Dietetic Association and American Diabetes Association. This pyramid groups foods based on their protein and carbohydrate content due to the fact that these are the foods that affect blood sugar levels.
Grains and starches are the base of this pyramid and emphasizes whole grains, starchy vegetables and dry beans. Six to elevens daily servings are recommended. Fresh fruits and vegetables also play a very important role in a diabetic menu. Four to six daily servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit are recommended. When it comes to dairy, low fat milk, cheese and yogurt products are recommended at 2-3 servings a day. Protein is an important part of the diet, and 2-3 servings are recommended per day. Fish and poultry is better than red meats due to the fact that it is less fatty. Sweets, alcohol and fats should be consumed sparingly.
As you can see a diabetic menu is primarily based on eating a healthy diet, with special considerations given for maintaining the proper blood sugar levels. Diabetics can still enjoy a wide variety of foods and enjoy a healthy, vibrant life.