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There are some foods at the grocery store that are marketed to
people with diabetes, but if you have been diagnosed with the
disease you certainly don’t have to limit yourself to foods you find
in the diet food aisle. There is a great amount of freedom in the
variety of food considered “diabetes food; “ as a matter of fact,
almost any food qualifies. Eating
healthy, nutritious food in sensible portions and eating on a
regular schedule are the best ways to manage your diabetes.
You don’t have to try to lose a lot of weight quickly, as a matter
of fact, most doctors and health professionals would warn against
that. Instead, they would suggest a slow and steady weight loss
program with a sensible diet and the
addition of exercise to your daily routine. The important thing is
to eat balanced meals, moderate portions and eat on a regular
schedule.
Meals should consist of a generous selection of vegetables and
fruits. Green, leafy vegetables and low-starch vegetables are
preferable, but any vegetables that can be eaten steamed, baked or
raw will do. Whole grains are better than bleached
or processed; adding fiber to your diet is suggested. Beans and
lentils are excellent sources of fiber and protein. Try to eat fish
a couple times a week and keep meat choices to lean cuts and
skin-free chicken or turkey.
Another way to cut back on fat in your diet is to start using low
fat and non-fat dairy products. Instead of trying to eliminate ice
cream from your diet eat no fat or low fat varieties. Use cooking
sprays instead of butter or vegetable oil for cooking. To take some
calories out of your diet switch to water or drink artificially
sweetened beverages.
If it is too hard for you to give up sweets and chips and other
unhealthy snack foods, first try cutting back on them and eating
them as a special treat. They can be worked into your meal plans as
exchanges for other foods as long as you use them judiciously.
Diabetes foods do not have to be flavorless, unsweetened, boring
choices nor do they have to be expensive processed foods. There are
a lot of recipes available and meal planning advice readily
available to you.
Restaurants are much more accommodating these days for people
with diabetes who dine out frequently, many menu choices are flagged
as heart-healthy or low-calorie, these are the choices you should
look for.
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