Diabetes is a condition that makes it hard for your body to use sugar for energy. Eating a healthy diet is important for managing diabetes and keeping your blood sugar levels under control.
Here are some easy-to-understand tips for eating a healthy diet with diabetes:
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber. Fiber helps to slow down digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, which can help to improve blood sugar control.
- Choose whole grains over refined grains. Whole grains are a good source of fiber and other nutrients. Refined grains have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Choose lean protein sources. Lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, beans, and tofu, are low in saturated fat and calories. Saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
- Limit unhealthy fats. Unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats, can raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Limit added sugars. Added sugars are found in many processed foods and drinks, such as sugary drinks, candy, and baked goods. Added sugars can raise blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain.
- Be mindful of portion sizes. It is important to be mindful of portion sizes when eating carbohydrates, especially refined carbohydrates.
- It is also important to eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day to help keep blood sugar levels stable.
If you have diabetes, it is important to work with a dietitian or other healthcare professional to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your specific needs and goals.
By following these tips, you can develop a healthy diet that will help you manage your diabetes and live a healthier life.