The American Diabetes Association has recommended a diet plan, which is helpful not only to diabetics, but for everyone. Following this diet will lead to good overall health, and it will also aid in the prevention of many ailments.
Diabetes was once considered to be a rich man’s disease, but now it is so common that it can affect anybody. In this condition, the human body produces very little or no insulin. This increases the blood sugar levels, which can be controlled by healthy eating. The American Diabetes Association diet comprises foods from all the groups. It recommends foods, which are high in monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and low in saturated fats. Most of the calories recommended come firstly from carbohydrates, secondly from fats, and lastly from proteins. For diabetic people, this helps in preventing the progression of disease by reducing blood sugar levels. For others, it reduces the risk of developing the disease.
This daily diet plan recommended for diabetics includes:
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended. One should include leafy and non-starchy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and carrots. Eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily.
- Whole Grains: The foods coming under this category include cereals, bread, and pasta. Eating six portions of whole grains every day is recommended.
- Dairy Products: Foods coming under this category include eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Eating non-fat cheese, non-fat yogurt, and drinking skimmed milk is recommended.
- Meat, Fish, or Chicken: Eating two portions of meat, fish, or chicken every day is recommended.
All people are different and so are their requirements. Some people may require a high-calorie diet. Therefore, different plans are recommended for such people.
The recommended daily diet for the people who require 1,200 – 1,600 calories for consumption include:
- Three portions each of fruits and vegetables
- Two portions each of milk, yogurt, and meat
- Three portions of fats
- Six portions of starches
The recommended plan for the people who require 1,600 – 2,000 calories for consumption include:
- Three portions of fruits
- Four portions of vegetables
- Two portions each of milk, yogurt, and meat
- Four portions of fats
- Eight portions of starches
The recommended plan for the diabetic people who require 2,000 – 2,400 calories for consumption include:
- Three portions of fruits
- Four portions of vegetables
- Two portions each of milk, yogurt, and meat
- Five portions of fats
- Eleven portions of starches
You may be wondering about the sweets? Yes of course! The American Diabetes Association recommends eating sweets, but in limited amounts. If you want to avoid sugar, you can eat low-calorie sweets or artificial sweeteners as a substitute for sugar. Before following any of these diet plans it’s advisable to consult your health care provider, as he knows you better.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.