According to the estimates of the International Diabetes Federation, in 2013, about 65 million people in India were suffering from diabetes. Diabetes is a health condition where the blood sugar level is higher than normal. Blood sugar is also known as blood glucose; It is an important source of energy for the body. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose. If insufficient insulin is produced by the body or it does not respond to insulin, glucose accumulates in the blood resulting in diabetes. The body naturally produces blood sugar from the food we eat and stores in the body. Diabetes can be managed successfully with a combination of a well-planned diet and medication. Use websites that provide free nutrition databases and food labels to look up nutritional information for foods. A healthy balanced diet is essential for diabetes management. The food you eat affects your blood sugar, body weight and heart health. The three major food groups that contribute calories are carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Of the food groups, carbohydrates have the greatest effect on blood sugar levels. After a meal, the rise in your blood sugar level is determined by the amount of carbohydrate in the meal. Nutrition data helps you identify foods that contain carbohydrates and control portion sizes. Examples of foods rich in carbohydrates are rice, bread, roti, naan, cereals, pasta, cereals, starchy vegetables (potatoes), dried beans, lentils, milk, yogurt, fruit, juice, soda, and desserts. Protein is an essential part of your diet but it does contribute calories. Excessive intake can lead to weight gain and increased fat intake. Lean meats, low-fat or non-fat dairy, and plant-based proteins are good choices. Foods that are high in fat are also high in calories; Due to which weight can increase. Reducing saturated and trans fats may reduce the risk of heart disease and improve weight control. Reliable online nutrition databases also provide the fat content of foods.
Losing weight can also help reduce blood sugar levels. Regular exercise and controlling calories can help with weight loss. Use the free calorie counters to plan your meals. Convenient calorie counting apps on mobile phones help you stay on track when you eat out. Work with a dietitian to create a personalized meal plan that fits with your insulin or medication dosage and schedule. A dietitian who understands ethnic diets can work with you to set up an effective meal plan.
