Aug 3, 2009

The Diabetic Diet

By Barb Hicks

Contrary to popular belief, a diabetic diet is also extremely healthy for everyone. In today's world, obesity has become an epidemic. It is also the number one risk factor for the onset of diabetes. Adopting this healthy diet whether you have diabetes or not can improve your health and help you in the fight against diabetes.

As everyone's lives are bombarded with fast food and larger size choices, it is no wonder that diabetes and heart disease have run rampant throughout the US and the world. For this reason, it only stands to reason that if everyone would partake in a healthier diet as well as regular physical activity, these deadly diseases could eventually be eradicated.

What should diabetics eat?

The diabetic diet is one that is rich in fresh fruits, green and colorful vegetables, whole grain breads, cereals and pasta, and lean meats such as fish and poultry. Most all foods consist of carbohydrates which is the main source of energy for the body. Carbohydrates also raise glucose levels, and those with diabetes must take care in the amounts of carbohydrates they eat and when. Meals should be eaten at the same time of day, in conjunction with coordinating insulin injections.

Fresh Fruits: All fruits are free of cholesterol. They are low in fat and sodium and calories, and provide fiber, vitamins and nutrients, as well as cancer fighting antioxidants.

Fresh Vegetables: Whether green or full of color, vegetables provide the body with vitamins A and C as well as fiber, potassium and folate. If combined with other foods that are high in fiber, vegetables can assist against the fight of other serious and chronic illnesses.

Whole Grains: Are excellent sources of fiber and other natural nutrients that help keep the digestive system functioning regularly.

The dairy family: Every body needs a serving of low fat or skim milk two to three times a day. Each serving supplies the body with much needed calcium, potassium and vitamins.

Fish and poultry: Chicken, turkey and fish are great additions to a healthy diet. Red meat has been described by many as unhealthy. A lot of diets say to limit the red meat intake to once a month as it is harder to digest and remains in the digestive system for way too long.

High fiber, low fat diets are extremely beneficial for everyone. Those with diabetes however must remember that while seafood does taste marvelous, it is known for being very high in cholesterol. In addition, diabetic patients must also keep in mind that liver is high in cholesterol and may also increase triglyceride levels.

Everyone can lower their risk of diabetes by implementing the healthy benefits of a high fiber, low cholesterol diet in addition to monitoring triglyceride levels, blood pressure and daily glucose levels. A healthy balance among all these things can assist in the fight against neuropathy, heart failure, cardiovascular disease and kidney failure.

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