Diabetes Diet

One diabetes diet does NOT fit all. You've been diagnosed with diabetes; diet is definitely on your mind. You are dreading that your doctor will make you give up everything you have ever loved to eat in life. In fact, a diabetes diet is tailored to each individual. It is based on the principles of diet and exercise that benefit all people. Of course if you love alcohol, you can count on that being a big change.

A diabetes diet does not necessarily mean special foods and complicated diet plans. A diabetes diet means meeting with a registered dietician, and finding a meal plan that works best for you and your particular diabetes. A diabetes diet plan involves eating a variety of foods in proper amounts and sticking to regular meal and snack times.

As part of your diabetes diet, a dietician may teach you to count carbohydrates. Regulating carbohydrates (amount and time of day) is an important part of keeping your sugar levels on target. If you are taking any diabetes medication this is especially important.

Exercise may be prescribed as part of your diabetes diet. Exercise, as simple as walking, is an important part of helping the body to regulate blood sugar.

Important facts to consider when adding exercise to your diabetes diet.

• Make sure your shoes fit well. After exercising always check your feet for redness or sores. Call your doctor if you have sores that do not heal. This is a common problem with diabetes.
• Ask your doctor or dietician if you should have a snack before you exercise.
• Ask your doctor if you should exercise when your blood sugar level is high.
• Always carry food or glucose tablets to treat low blood glucose when you are exercising.
• Always wear your medical identification bracelet when going out to exercise.

In short a healthy diabetes diet involves these factors:

• Eating regularly
• Learning how to count carbohydrates
• Eating whole-grain foods, fruits and vegetables
• Eating less fat
• Reducing and limiting your use of alcohol
• Exercising regularly

A diabetes diet can be as simple as living a better and healthier life. Doesn't everyone want that?