Diabetes Diet

Diabetes is a condition affecting blood sugar and the hormone insulin. Insulin is the hormone that makes it possible for sugar in the blood to be used as energy in the body. A person having a diabetic condition suffers from elevated levels of sugar in the blood. Gestational diabetes is a diabetic condition that occurs during pregnancy. Some women develop type 2 diabetes from a gestational condition. Diabetes can be divided into two types, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes has to do with a significantly decreased amount of insulin in the body. Type 2 diabetes is the body's developed resistance to insulin.

Dietary restrictions for diabetics can be food regulation to lose excess weight, avoiding fats, in particular saturated fats, eating multiple portions of whole grains for healthy carbohydrate breakdown in the blood as well as plenty of vegetables and reasonable amounts of fruits. Meats with high fat should be avoided. Fish and white meat such as chicken are best. A diabetic diet should consist mostly of whole grains and other complex carbohydrates, with fat being approximately 30% and protein being limited in amounts.

Weight control is essential for diabetics. A simple calorie controlled diet can contribute to the drastic improvement of a diabetic condition. Carbohydrates are complex and simple in structure, with grains and vegetables being complex and fruits, flour products and potatoes being simple. Complex carbohydrates are best for the diabetic diet and contribute to sugar breakdown and energy building rather than empty calories and additional fat storage.

Before considering any weight loss method or form of exercise it is important for individuals to consult with a physician for advice. Please consult with your physician before attempting any method of dieting or exercise.