Diet and Diabetes

How They Are Linked

Diabetes affects 2.9 million people in the UK and there is an estimated 850,000 people who have the condition but don’t know it. There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is where your body does not produce insulin, this type 1 is also known as juvenile diabetes as it occurs mainly in people before 40 years of age. Type 1 is not a reflection on your lifestyle and it can not be prevented but choosing a healthy lifestyle will help manage your diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is completely different in that the body is either not producing enough insulin, it's not being used correctly by the body or both. Approx 85% of people with diabetes have type 2, which is commonly caused by being overweight or living an unhealthy lifestyle for some time.

Being diagnosed with diabetes means that looking after your health has become even more important. This article will look at how leading a healthy lifestyle can improve the way you live with diabetes.

Changing you eating habits is the first easy changeable step to leading a healthier life and can improve the way you manage your diabetes.

Healthy eating

Being diagnosed with diabetes doesn’t mean you have to radically change your lifestyle but making a conscious decision to eat and live healthier means the food choices you make and your eating habits are important in helping you to manage your diabetes and long-term health.

• Eat 3 meals a day – Skipping meals not only messes with your metabolism and your appetite, but it means you are not in control of your blood glucose level.

• With each meal try to include starchy carbs– We all presume that carbs are bad for us, but not when trying to manage your diabetes. The starchy carbs will help control your glucose level. Try pasta, cereals or sweet potatoes, these all are absorbed slowly, and won't mess with your blood sugar levels.

• Reduce your fat intake – This is not only good for losing weight, but will also have an effect on the amount of sugar that builds up in your blood.

• Don't buy diabetic food and drinks– They offer no benefit to people with diabetes. These types of food and drinks can still affect your blood sugar levels, contain just as much fat and calories as the ordinary versions, can have a laxative effect and are expensive.

• Limit your sugar intake- This does not mean you can't enjoy sweets or cakes ever again, it just means be careful and make small changes such as sugar free or no added sugar options.

Just making a small, conscious decision can help the way you live your life. Changing sugary foods which are just empty calories, for fruit, veg and other healthy options can not only help the way your diabetes is managed but it can also significantly reduce your risk of other medical conditions.

Diabetes UK recommends:that everyone with diabetes should see a registered dietitian at diagnosis, and then have regular reviews. Ask your GP to refer you to a registered dietitian.

The diabetes UK have a great web page for new and exciting recipes check it out on the below link:

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/Guide-to-diabetes/Food_and_recipes/Recipes/

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