Dietary guidelines for diabetic Patients in India
Dietary guidelines for diabetic Patients in India
Dietary guidelines for diabetic Patients
Diet plays a vital role in Diabetes Management. Balanced diet with the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and fibres are important. It helps to avoid any further complications related to high sugar levels and cholesterol. Balanced diet will help to prevent further complications like heart disease, kidney disease etc.
Portion control is the key to control your blood sugar levels. The intake of each food group in proper portion is very important.
Below are the food groups which are important to maximize glycemic control.
- Whole Grains
Whole grains are staple food in India and are easily available in local market. It also contains different types of macro as well as micro-nutrients like proteins, fibres, multivitamins and minerals. It also contains good amount of carbohydrates which are responsible for sugar spikes. Moderate amount of grains are recommended to control blood sugar levels.
Cereals – Pulse combination in a proper portion is recommended to reduce the Glycemic Index of the cereals.
- Pulses and legumes
- A food group, that contains a high amount of protein and fibres. Pulses and legumes also contains same amount of carbohydrates unlike cereals. But because of low Glycaemic Index and more protein, fibres, different types of vitamins and minerals, it will help to maintain your blood sugar levels.
FIBERS
Fibre is very important component in your diet. It not only helps to maintain excellent bowel health but also helps to give satiety for a longer time. Because of low carbohydrate amount and low glycaemic index, 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day are recommended.
- Fresh fruits
Another important food group that all diabetic patients must include in their diet is fresh fruit. Many people have a misconception that fruits contain a high amount of sugar and must be avoided in case of diabetes. But this is a myth.
Some fruits if consumed in more quantity may increase the blood sugar level, the majority of them have a lower glycaemic index. Plus, it has a very less chance of increasing blood sugar levels in patients. Avoid a more quantity of following fruits like mangoes, grapes, jackfruit, chickoo, banana , custard apple are of high glycemic index than the other fruits like apple, pears, oranges, papaya, grapefruits, etc. which provides fibre , vitamins and minerals to the body and helps to keep the blood sugar levels in control.
Milk
Milk contains a type of carbohydrate called lactose. But it also contains good quality proteins, essential amino acids and many more nutrients which are required for normal body functions. For vegetarians’ milk and milk products are the only source of good quality proteins. So, it is essential to take milk and milk products in a moderate quantity in your day to day dietary routine. It is totally fine to drink one or two small cups of milk every day. Milk should be low fat or skimmed milk (without fat). Make sure it should be boiled and pasteurized. Moreover, stay away from any other dairy products like cheese, butter, etc as it contains more trans fats.
Summary
Diet should be a balanced diet. It should contain all the essential food groups in your daily routine especially when you are diagnosed with diabetes. To follow regular meal timings also important to maintain your blood sugar levels.
Exercise plays a key role to minimize blood sugar levels. 30-60 minutes daily exercise is required to improve the functioning of the pancreas and liver, which will help to control blood sugar levels.
Blood Glucose Monitoring, regular consultation with your Physician/Diabetologist and proper guidance of qualified dietitian is important for good control.