Diabetes symptoms: Patients should eat these foods every week
DIABETES symptoms include feeling very thirsty, passing more urine than usual, and feeling fatigued. But, these are the foods you should eat every week to reduce signs of the condition.
- Diabetes symptoms include fatigue, feeling very thirsty, and urinating more often than normal
- Eating the right foods could make diabetes management easier
- Eat at least one portion of starchy food and protein everyday
- Try to limit fatty and sugary foods
Diabetes management could be improved by eating the right foods, according to charity Diabetes UK.
The amount you should eat depends on your age, gender, and how much you exercise.
No single food contains all of the nutrients you need, so finding the right balance between different types of food is crucial, the charity said. This is what you should eat every week to get all of your essential nutrients, and to lower your blood sugar.
Meanwhile, one man claimed to cure his diabetes by following a specific diet plan. The Lighter Life Total Very Low-Calorie Diet gives patients four food packs every day to help them lose weight.
Paul Donnelly, 46, lost more than six stone after taking part in the diet plan. His blood sugar returned to under the maximum level after just two weeks, he claimed.
Starchy Foods
You should eat some starchy foods every day, the charity said. Starchy foods are used to provide cells with energy, while also regulating the digestive system.
“Better options of starchy foods – such as wholegrain bread, wholewheat pasta and basmati, brown or wild rice – contain more fibre, which helps to keep your digestive system working well,” said Diabetes UK. “They are generally more slowly absorbed (that is, they have a lower glycaemic index), keeping you feeling fuller for longer.”
Protein
Protein helps to build and replace muscles, while also protecting the heart. Diabetes patients should aim to have some protein everyday, with at least one to two portions of oily fish a week. A small handful of raw nuts and seeds is an ideal snack, while using beans and pulses in a casserole could be used to replace some of the meat.
Diabetes symptoms: Diet can impact diabetes management
Diabetes symptoms: Patients should eat oily fish at least twice a week
Dairy
“Milk, cheese and yogurt contain calcium, which is vital for growing children as it keeps their bones and teeth strong,” said Diabetes UK.
“Some dairy foods are high in fat, particularly saturated fat, so choose lower-fat alternatives (check for added sugar, though).”
Aim to have some dairy everyday, but you shouldn’t have too much. Patients could try drinking milk straight from the glass, or added to porridge. Cottage cheese scooped on carrot sticks also provides the perfect snack for diabetics.
Diabetes symptoms: Signs of condition include feeling very thirsty and fatigued
Diabetes symptoms: Patients should try and eat a rainbow-coloured array of fruit and vegetables
Fruit and Vegetables
Fruit and vegetables are naturally low in fat, and are rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre.
The perfect array of fresh produce should include a rainbow of colours.
Adding just one extra handful of vegetables to your dinner could help to protect against heart disease, high blood pressure and strokes.
Fatty and Sugary Foods
“You can enjoy food from this group as an occasional treat in a balanced diet, but remember that sugary foods and drinks will add extra calories – and sugary drinks will raise blood glucose – so opt for diet/light or low-calorie alternatives,” said Diabetes UK.
“Fat is high in calories, so try to reduce the amount of oil or butter you use in cooking. “Remember to use unsaturated oils, such as sunflower, rapeseed or olive oil, as these types are better for your heart.” Patients should eat as little fatty and sugary foods as possible, the charity said.