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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Friday, July 4, 2008
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Friday, July 4, 2008
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Did you know that, in the past 20 years, the death rate due to diabetes has increased by 45% while the death rates due to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer have decreased? The prevalence of diabetes in the American population has increased significantly to its current rate of 7%, with an additional 18% of the population having pre-diabetes.
Although the Diabetes Food Pyramid uses the former graphic of the USDA pyramid, it clearly conveys the message that persons with diabetes should include a variety of nutrient-dense, low fat foods in their diet. An individualized lifestyle plan is recommended, with an appropriate balance of food and physical activity for the management of diabetes and its complications, such as cardiovascular disease. Weight management is essential since type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, can be prevented or delayed through weight control.
Yes, to maintain normal levels of blood glucose, it's important to eat at regular intervals. Since carbohydrates have the largest impact on blood glucose levels, carbohydrate-containing foods should be distributed throughout the day. Persons using insulin must coordinate their injections with food intake and adjust their dosages to the amount of carbohydrate consumed. Carbohydrate counting is a simple method of planning meals used by health care professionals. Based on your daily caloric needs, you are given a carbohydrate allowance for the day, divided into meals and snacks. You then select carbohydrate-rich foods, such as grains, fruits, starchy vegetables, and milk, in specific portions to fit your prescribed meal plan.
No, the recommendations for carbohydrate, protein, and fat for persons with diabetes are the same as those for all healthy Americans. In the past, persons with diabetes were told to completely avoid all sugary foods. Today, we know that the amount of carbohydrate is the most important influence on blood glucose levels. So, to control blood glucose while still having an occasional sweet, you can
Remember that a certified diabetes educator or registered dietitian can help you develop a tailored diet plan that meets your nutrient needs and your food preferences. For more information, visit the American Diabetes Association website.
This article originally appeared in Nutri-bytes (November 2007), a service of the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing and was adapted for use on NetWellness with permission.
Last Reviewed: Nov 02, 2007
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Bonnie J. Brehm, PhD, RD Professor College of Nursing University of Cincinnati |
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