Diabetes is a chronic disease in which blood sugar levels are elevated and are not properly regulated. When carbohydrate-containing food is consumed, the carbohydrate is broken down into glucose. Glucose is taken up by blood and transported to other tissues. Insulin is the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and thereby diabetes management.
The pancreas secretes insulin and if it does not produce sufficient insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin secreted efficiently, the blood sugar levels become high. This condition is called hyperglycemia which is the result of uncontrolled diabetes which becomes the problem of diabetes management.
Physical activity, appropriate diet, regular screening, and treatment are the measures to be taken seriously for diabetes management and to avoid any complications that occur because of diabetes. Diet plays an important role in the management of glucose levels in the blood.
* Avoid sugarSugar increases the glycaemic index of the meal. Since insulin production is affected in diabetes it is better to avoid sugar for diabetes management. A diabetic diet should have more of low glycaemic index foods.
Foods with lower glycaemic responses are more desirable for people who are actively managing their blood glucose levels. That is people with prediabetes and diabetes. The lower glycaemic response could mean less medication necessary to keep blood glucose levels in check and easier diabetes management
* Whole grainsDietary fiber helps to regulate glucose levels in the blood. It decreases the glycaemic index of a meal. It is recommended to add whole grains to the diet for diabetes management. Avoid refined foods that are made with refined flour and switch to whole grain flours.
* Protein foodsA low carbohydrate diet is what is suggested for diabetics for diabetes management. The nutrient which is increased in a diabetic diet is the protein content. If there are any issues with the kidney then a high protein diet is not recommended. Take moderate amounts of protein in the diet which helps to regulate glucose levels in the blood and thereby aid diabetes management.
* Avoid salty foodsSalt, when taken in excess, leads to hypertension. And hypertension is a risk factor for heart problems. Diabetic people are at a higher risk of developing heart problems. Avoid salty foods such as snacks and pickles.
* Use spicesAn array of spices and condiments are used in Indian cuisine. Turmeric, pepper, cumin, mustard, and so many others. These spices have bioactive compounds that promote health. These days people have stopped using most of the spices. Fill up that spice rack in the kitchen and start using them for better diabetes management.
* Keep yourself hydratedDrink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated. Avoid drinking sugary and fizzy drinks to quench thirst.
* Read labelsLearn to read food labels and understand them. There is sugar in processed foods where you do not expect. In juices, in ketchup, and in soups. Learn to choose the right foods. Make it a habit to read the label when you pick up food in the store for inculcating healthy habits of diabetes management.
* Home-cooked foodsIt looks like home cooking is going to become an extinct activity. Unless we cook our own food, we do not have control over what goes into our bodies. Make it a fun activity, involve children too in cooking since it’s the easiest way for diabetes management.
* Maintain ideal weightObesity is a risk factor for several chronic diseases. Apart from regulating glucose levels in the blood focus on achieving an ideal weight and maintaining it.
* Be physically activeBeing physically active, that is exercising regularly is very important not only to maintain ideal weight but also to promote good health. Exercise helps prevent certain chronic diseases.
* Regular screeningTimely check on blood glucose levels is important. Tracking the glucose levels helps in effective diabetes management.