Eating the right foods is vital to the management and treatment of diabetes. Managing carbs with diabetes and making the right food choices is essential.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body is unable to process carbs properly. A hormone known as insulin is created by the pancreas to help the body’s cells absorb blood sugar (glucose). In individuals with diabetes, their body cells do not respond well to insulin, or the body is not capable of producing enough (or any) insulin to manage glucose (blood sugars) in the body. Because of this,blood-sugar levels become high, often causing serious complications. Managing carb intake is the most recommended way to evade these complications and a good way to control blood-sugar levels in general.

Why a diabetes-friendly meal plan is important

The path to managing blood-sugar levels is managing carbs intake. Primarily, carbohydrates are foods that raise blood sugar levels. So if you have diabetes, managing carb intake should be your primary goal. However, selecting high fiber and slow digesting carbs can help as well.

Apart from carbohydrates, you are advised to limit sodium intake, saturated fats and trans-fats. You also need to incorporate healthy fats and fiber into your meal. Individuals with diabetes are at high risk for high cholesterol, heart disease and hypertension. Hence, it is wise to consider the above risks when planning your diet.

What foods should diabetic people avoid?

There are certain foods that are risky to your body if you are diabetic. Here are some of the foods you should avoid.

*Trans-fats – Trans-fats are listed on food-labels as hydrogenated fats or partially-hydrogenated fats. You should avoid such foods or limit yourself to not more than 2 grams daily. You will find them in processed or prepared food isle.

* Added sugar – Avoid any food with added-sugar since they are often low in fiber, minerals and vitamins, or they may have quick-digesting carbs.

* Processed foods – You should avoid processed foods at any cost because they are low in minerals, vitamins and fiber. They also have added sugar, preservatives, sodium and trans-fats. Processed foods digest very quickly and can quickly cause your blood sugar levels to rise.

What should you manage?

Even though every person’s dietary needs are not the same, most individuals manage portions using the several methods. Some use strict ways to manage carbs intake. People with diabetes should limit their carbohydrates intake to around 30 grams to 60 grams per meal and for snacks 15 to 30 grams. However, this may vary depending on your case. Always consult a physician before a change in your meal plan, if you are diabetic or are at risk for diabetes.

Managing carbs intake is not a simple task. May try and fail to manage carb intake. Still, others tally their servings, with each serving being equal to 15 grams. Even though some foods are considered FREE it is important to be cautious, since these foods often substitute sugar with other unhealthy foods.

By managing carbs and being watchful of added sugar and fat, you will be on the right path to maintaining a healthy diabetes lifestyle.

*The author of this blog is not a medical professional and this article does not contain professional medical advice. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of the contents of this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.