What to Eat and not to Eat if You Have Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that is permanently experienced by the person afflicted with it. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, do not lose hope as there are ways to cope with your disease. You can even control the symptoms of your disease and improve your overall well-being if you know how to do so. In relation to this, it is very important for you to know what to eat and not to eat if you have diabetes.

The ballooning number of people that are diagnosed with diabetes each year have become very alarming so before this condition afflicts any more people, we should take a close look at our diet. For those who suffer with diabetes, a diet that is high in fiber but low in fat should be followed. Staying away from saturated fat and sugar should also be done.

Diabetics are required to have a fiber intake and one of the best fiber-rich foods include fruits and vegetables. Fruits have carbohydrates and natural sugars which have to be taken in moderation. Two to four servings of fruit every day is needed for a diabetic diet.

Vegetables should be included in a diabetic diet and must be served three to five times a day. Vegetables that are perfect for diabetic people include carrots, tomatoes, cabbage, spinach, cucumbers, broccoli and lettuce.

Since carbohydrates are very important in a person's diet, it follows that a person afflicted with diabetes has to have some in his diet as well. Carbohydrates are important because it is a good source of energy, vitamins, and minerals. It even has the necessary fiber that maintains blood sugar levels. Whole grain products are recommended for diabetics since it takes a longer time for the body to break it down thus keeping the body from releasing unpredictable amount of sugar. Best sources of carbohydrates include beans, oats, barley, corn, potatoes and pasta.

Dairy products such as milk and cheese must be limited since they are very rich in carbohydrates. If you are a lover of dairy products, then you might consider going low-fat and unsweetened as you need two to three servings of dairy products per day.

Protein should also be included in your diet albeit only having to consume six ounces a day spread over three meals. Best sources of proteins include fish, beans, nuts, and poultry.

Though fats and sweets are necessary for our body to function at its optimum, it has to be taken in moderation and must be strictly under control.

Knowing these what's and whatnot's will help you control your diabetes and will help you eat a balanced diet. With the type of food we have today, it can be said that only 20% of the necessary nutrients is given to our body, which is why a lot of people are suffering from conditions like obesity and diabetes. With a proper diet, you will be able to control the symptoms associated with diabetes. It is very important to maintain this so that the body's glucose levels are held at a safe and normal state.

Reference: http://www.diabetes-cause.com