With so much information available these days online, it is obvious to get confused with do’s and don’ts for diabetes leading to poor diabetic diet. In this blog, we will try to bust some of the myths and suggest some do’s and don’ts for a healthy diabetic diet. When it comes to managing Type 2 Diabetes, diet and lifestyle changes are really important. Once these changes are adapted, they actually make a huge difference in controlling diabetes.
Mind your Carbohydrates
The first thing that comes to our mind when diabetes is diagnosed is ‘NO’ to sweets. But, that’s the biggest misconception. When the blood chemical reports highlight higher Hba1c levels, sweets, desserts and rice are always blamed and restricted. But, to your surprise, it is not only them, but also the other carb rich foods such as paranthas, savouries, fried snacks and even fruit juices that are contributing equally to increasing sugar levels.To manage this, one needs to learn to balance carbohydrates with high protein and high fibre diet in diabetes rather than completely restricting them.
Make sure to add Fibre in your diet
Fibre plays a vital role in managing sugar levels in diabetes. But including fibre with the right meal is equally important. It is recommended to add at least 2-3 servings of fruits everyday. Make sure to add fruits such as apple, papaya, guava, pear, pineapple in mid meals rather than with major meals. One should completely avoid adding fruits like mango, strawberry, banana especially with or post meals. Instead add salads such as cucumber, carrot, tomato with your major meals.

Never skip your meals
Skipping meals will never help you maintain sugar levels in the long term. One very common wrong practice is skipping dinner to reduce fasting sugar level. But, such habits are not sustainable. In fact, skipping meals can lead to adverse effects such as hypoglycemia, which could be life threatening too.
Regular Sugar Charting
Monitoring of blood sugar levels regularly is beneficial in Diabetes. It helps in deciding on food choices, physical activity and insulin dosage. Regular sugar charting should include both fasting as well as post prandial sugar levels of each day. Maintaining sugar charting can also help the endocrinologist decide the required dosage of medication monthly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, diet plays a critical role in managing Diabetes and alleviating its symptoms. By making informed dietary choices, including nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding processed and sugary items, diabetes can actually be managed. Whether following a vegetarian diet or opting for a more traditional approach, creating a personalised Diabetes diet plan can empower individuals to take control of their health and wellbeing. For more blogs, check https://balancetheplate.com/blog/