Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes

Today in America, the number of people with diabetes is growing at a fast pace. If you are someone with diabetes or are inviting someone over to eat that has diabetes, it is good to have a basic understanding of what it is and how you can help prepare food that is delicious, yet meets their nutritional requirements. There are plenty of foods that are diabetic-friendly foods. let’s look at some basics on diabetes.

Understanding Diabetes

Someone with diabetes is a person whose body either does not produce insulin, enough insulin, or it produces insulin in a way that the body cannot use it to its fullest. Insulin is used by the body to transport sugar – glucose – to the calls in the blood. Not having enough insulin creates high levels of blood sugar levels, which can harm many of the body’s organs, such as the eyes, pancreas, kidneys, etc.

There are two different types of diabetes, type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is completely dependent on insulin injections, since those with Type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin on their own. Type 2 diabetes occurs when one’s body cannot use the glucose properly. They may or may not be dependent on insulin injections, or other medications. Some diabetics are able to live without needing to take medication simply by keeping close control of their eating habits and exercising enough.

Diabetes Friendly Foods

Glucose is the way our bodies use sugar. For at practical purposes we will substitute glucose for sugar. Sugars are found in many different foods. Carbohydrates are sugars. People with diabetes need to control their carb intake, usually to 45-60g per meal for women and 60-75g per meal for men. This assumes an active lifestyle. For those with less active lifestyles. the intake should be lower. If you have diabetes, carbs are necessary to produce energy, but too many carbs are not your friend.

We get carbs from many different sources. If you look at the food pyramid, carbs come in the grains food group, so in pasta, breads, rice, wheat, etc. Carbs also can be found in fruits. The sugar in fruit is called fructose. A single grape for example equals about 1g of carbs. Dairy products contain a sugar called lactose, so they also have carbs.

Meats and vegetable have minimal carbs if at all, so these foods are very good for those with diabetes. Broccoli and beef or chicken are a great combination. Also beef jerky and nuts are great for snacks.

Preparing Diabetes Friendly Foods

As mentioned above, meat and vegetables are great for those with diabetes. Preparing a low carb meal is optimal for diabetics. Diabetics can usually have a desert, but only a small serving.

So when preparing a meal for someone with diabetes, consider what you put before them. Stick to low carb foods and you will be a big hit!