Diabetes and Your Diet: Eating Right
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are progressive physical conditions for which there is no cure. However, people with either form of the disease can usually lead normal, fully functioning lives by managing their condition appropriately. Perhaps the most important factor in managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is following a nutritious and appropriate diet.
The Type 1 version of diabetes is characterized by the inability of the pancreas to generate a sufficient insulin output. This lack of insulin causes an excessive amount of glucose to collect in the bloodstream, rendering the body unable to produce the energy it needs. At some point, the internal systems are not putting out any insulin. While those with Type 1 diabetes have no choice but to take daily insulin injections, they can further improve their management of the disease by making dietary adjustments in addition to the insulin treatments.
Numerous case studies have confirmed that controlled carbohydrate intake is the key component in regulating the quantity of insulin that is needed to maintain systemic stability and consistent blood sugar levels in those who are afflicted with Type 1 diabetes. There is a balance that must be maintained between the amount of carbohydrates consumed, insulin, and physical activity that is necessary for maintaining the proper levels of glucose (blood sugar). When these components are not in balance, glucose levels can and will fluctuate quite a bit. Therefore, people with Type 1 diabetes who take fixed doses of insulin every day should make sure that the carb content of their daily meals and snacks is consistent as well.
Type 2 diabetes differs from Type 1 in that it is a problem with the body’s response to insulin, rather than a problem with the production of insulin itself. Type 2 has been shown to be at least partially connected to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. Therefore, nutritional goals for those with the Type 2 form of diabetes are somewhat different as well. Here, the main focus should be on losing and controlling body weight. Eight to ninety percent of Type 2 diabetes sufferers are overweight; some are even obese. For these people, the dietary changes begin with reducing calorie intake, eliminating saturated fat, close monitoring of carbohydrates and incorporating healthy monounsaturated fats including nuts and peanut butter. In addition to helping with weight control, this will also help with maintaining proper blood sugar levels.
Following this diet along with increasing the level of physical activity will reduce insulin resistance, and improve glucose control as well as aiding in weight loss. Carbohydrate consumption should come from healthy whole grains, pasta, brown rice, beans and fresh fruit and vegetables rather than heavily processed foods. Although it is possible to occasionally enjoy a piece of birthday cake or pie. However, on that special occasion when cake or pie is consumed, it is important to keep this in mind and reduce other carbohydrates accordingly so as not to offset the careful balance with glucose levels. By doing this, you will preserve the correct healthy ratio between sugar and total calories.
Diabetes is a severe medical condition which can create devastating health problems and can even be fatal. In many situations, it can be managed by making alterations to your diet. If you’re looking for a diabetic weight loss diet or other tips on managing the condition, check out the Diabetes Treatment site.
