Diabetes Diet Plan: What to Eat and Not to Eat

When someone is diagnosed with diabetes or told that he is at risk, the first thought that is bound to run through his mind is “I will no longer be able to eat normally.” The common notion is that sugars must be avoided at all costs and desserts must be given up completely. Your previous diet gets replaced by a strict, merciless regimen and your whole life is spent keeping a sharp eye on what you put into your body. 

While it is true that diet modification is required to prevent or control diabetes, the notion that this medical condition will cripple your entire life is nothing more than a misconception. And, this article aims at busting some of the more common myths surrounding this topic. So, let’s get started, shall we? 

Carbohydrates are An Absolute No-no! 

The average diabetic believes that carbohydrates should be stricken completely off the list. However, few people know that carbohydrates, or “carbs” as they are popularly referred to, are integral to a healthy diet for diabetic patients. 

Apart from being the primary source of energy, carbs contain essential nutrients, such as minerals, vitamins, and fiber. For this reason, instead of abstaining from them altogether, a better thing to do would be to choose healthier carbs, such as the ones you find in whole foods and high fiber fruit and vegetables. 

Diet for Diabetics should be High in Proteins 

Since most diabetic patients cut down on carbohydrates, they turn to proteins as a source of energy. However, this can be counter-productive for them. Studies show that having a protein-rich diet can cause insulin resistance, a factor that could aggravate the condition further. For this reason, a healthy diet, especially for people with diabetes, should derive only 15-20% of its calories from proteins, and no more. 

Your Favorite Foods are Completely off the List 

Abstinence seems to be the defining characteristic of a diet for people with diabetes. The general idea is that anything you may have loved eating becomes the forbidden fruit and gets crossed off your diet chart. This isn’t necessarily so. 

While you are not allowed to give in to your indulgences, there is no reason really why you should give up having what you like as long as it is in moderation. For instance, you could reduce the portion of your favorite dessert or use it as a reward for following your meal plan regularly. 

Life for people with diabetes is not easy. Constant vigilance is required to keep their sugar levels in check. That said, it’s important to investigate the scientific validity of dietary ideas that one comes across these days. And the best way to do that is to consult a trusted medical practitioner or a qualified nutritionist.