DIABETES TIPS

What is diabetes? Diabetes is where the body cannot properly use glucose for energy. Glucose is a form of sugar that our body needs. Glucose comes from foods such as fruit, milk, some vegetables, starchy foods and sugar. It is important to eat healthy foods and be active to control the blood glucose.

Healthy eating for diabetes :

Here are some tips on healthy eating for diabetes.
1. Be physically active every day.
2. Every four to six hours apart, eating three meals per day is important
3. Choose high fibre foods such as whole grain breads and cereals, lentils, dried beans and peas, brown rice, fruits and vegetables.
4. Limit sweets such as sugar, desserts, candies, jam and honey.
5. Choose low fat dairy products. Limit high fat choices such as fried foods, chips, pastries, cheese and butter.
6. If you are thirsty, drink water, avoid drinking juices.
7. Foods containing starch should take up one quarter of your plate. Choose whole grain breads, whole wheat roti, cereals, rice, noodles, or potatoes at every meal. Your body needs these foods for energy.
8. Protein foods should take up one quarter of your plate. These include fish, lean meats or poultry, low fat cheese, eggs, or vegetarian protein choices, such as tofu, dhal, lentils or beans.
9. Have low fat milk or yogurt, and a small piece of fruit to complete your meal.
10. Alcohol can affect blood glucose levels and contribute to weight gain. Talk to your health care professional about whether you can include alcohol in your meal plan and how much is safe.