The Best Foods To Eat When You're Diabetic

The issue as to what kinds of foods diabetic patients should eat has become worrisome, especially considering the fact that some of the arguments are without scientific backing. While some are superstitious, others are simply a product of ignorance.

However, diabetic diets should be chosen based on our understanding of the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Experts and nutritionists agree there is no special diet for diabetics. There are no rigid rules to be followed while choosing or preparing foods for patients with diabetes; you only need to understand how the various nutrients work, the quantity needed by the individual, and what should be avoided in order to prevent complications.

The American Diabetic Association advises that you eat more starch, such as bread, cereal and starchy vegetables. One is required to take up to 6 or more servings daily. It is also advisable to eat the same quantity of food at about the same time daily to maintain a stable blood glucose level.

Nevertheless, in preparing a diabetic diet, the following formula should be applied: Carbohydrates = 50%, Proteins = 12% to 20% and fats = 30% to 35% (with no more than 10% saturated fats).

It is advisable to eat foods that contain complex high-fibre carbohydrates, because they help to slow down digestion and absorption of carbohydrates and increase sensitivity of tissues to insulin; as such prevent rises in blood glucose levels. Such foods include oats, cereals, peas, whole grain food, dried beans, vegetables, legumes etc. kidney beans and carrots also contain soluble fibres which are very useful.

Generally speaking, the following groups of foods are okay for the diabetic person – salad, desserts, poultry and egg dishes, pork, beef, breads, beverages, etc. Therefore the under-listed foods are safe for the person with diabetes: Red and green cabbage slaw, wilted spinach salad, oriental garden toss, sweet potato casserole, lemon squares, chewy coconut bars, sweet and sour stir-fry, pulled pork barbecue, Noodle kugel, penne salad primavera, sweet potato pie, rich chocolate cheese cake, pumpkin pie, pumpkin cheese cake, tapioca pudding, strawberry short cakes, strawberry cream pie, lemon meringue pie, apple pie, orange yoghurt, coconut custard pie, chocolate ice cream, chocolate cream pie, blueberry pie, apple dessert pizza, apple pancake, instant cocoa mix, lemonade shake-up, coffee latte, fitness shake etc.

The person must avoid sucrose, fructose, honey, white rice, corn-syrup, white bread, sweets, salty foods, alcohol, etc. If the diabetic adheres to the recommended foods, complications are easily prevented and the patient is bound to live healthier and longer.