Millions of people, young and old, thick and thin live with a potentially deadly disease; Diabetes. When a person learns that they are diabetic it can really upset their life. But with modern medicine, diabetes is no longer the death sentence it once was. Simply put, you have to watch what you eat, when you eat, and how your body is going to react to certain foods. We have a simple, easy to use outline that will help you or a loved one blend your old lifestyle with your new one, the one where you are affected by diabetes.The Good Stuff (Yes, there's Good Stuff!)
You don't have to give up whole wheat! Sometimes the hardest part of any diet is giving up something, like starches and sugars. Diabetes is more manageable if you add starches to your diet because it slows down how much glucose your body processes. The starch makes it easier to keep your glucose levels in check. Start with an extra piece of toast or another serving of healthy cereal in the morning. You can also start by adding in vegetables with good starches in them.
The diabetic diet does not have to be bland, an added serving of veggies will go a long way. Don't be like the rest of the non-diabetic world, come up with new and exciting ways to get your daily dose of good-for-you veggies! It would be a good idea to research recipes online on how to prepare veggies for a diabetic diet. You can also go to your local book store and buy a cookbook that is strictly focused on how to create meals with the diabetic person in mind. Veggies can be eaten in just about anything you cook. Add them to soups, salads, or eat them as a snack!
Okay, The Not So Good Stuff
Say goodbye to the sweets, sweet. Now, we're not talking about getting rid of sugar from your diet completely. There is a common misconception that once you are told you have diabetes, you have to give up sugar forever. It's not true. You do have to test your blood sugar levels every day to make sure you are not too high or too low.
Technology has advanced enough that testing your blood sugar is not the trial it once was. Now there are testing devices that don't hurt and far more accurate than those of the past. And as an added bonus, many insurance providers are willing to either completely pay for or totally reimburse you for all of your testing supplies. Another good idea is to lower your fat and empty calorie consumption but that's a good idea for any diet plan!
Check online or at the library for more information about your particular type of diabetes and what type of diet you should be following. Your doctor's office should also have plenty of informational pamphlets for you to read. Both online and off there are support groups for you if you need the help.
Diabetes is no longer the dreaded disease of the past. There is just too much information and to much support to suffer alone and in silence. If you find yourself craving sweets, check with your doctor or a nutritionist and see if there are any sweet alternatives you can turn to. There are many diabetic friendly candies and foods out in the retail market to choose from. Diabetes can be controlled as long as you are willing to take the steps to manage your diet properly. Don't let diabetes make you a victim, take control of your lifestyle and be a victor!
Check out my other diet for diabetes article here: http://fitnessgremlin.com/diet-for-diabetes/
Tracy Shaffer- Fitness Enthusiast, weight loser extraordinare. Are you tired of fitness information that sounds like VCR instructions? So am I. Check out Fitness Gremlin instead.
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