Here are some of the most frequently questions I get asked about diabetes nutrition information.

Are There Certain Foods I Can't Eat?

There's nothing you absolutely cannot eat. Being told you can't eat something usually makes you feel deprived so you'll want to eat that particular food more. The trick is to work out how to incorporate small serving of any food into your diabetes diet plan.

What About Desserts?

If you keep your servings small, there's no reason why you can't enjoy your favourite desserts occasionally. Remember sugar and white bread (for example) are both simple carbohydrates and both have a similar effect on blood sugar levels.

If you can substitute your sugar containing desert for another carbohydrate food in your diet plan you'll keep your intake of both carbohydrates and calories under control.

Must I become a vegetarian?

Actually vegetarian diets can be high in carbohydrates so the short answer is "no" If you prefer to follow a vegetarian diet, make sure you include protein food such as soybeans, nuts and tofu. Also include plant foods high in soluble fiber such as peas, beans, oats and barley to counteract any rise in blood glucose.

What About a High Protein, Low Carbohydrate Diet?

These diets are not a healthy diet for type 2 diabetes. True you can lose weight with this type of diet but you run a high risk of kidney disease.

Any diet that cuts out foods like fruit, vegetables and whole grains shouldn't be considered seriously.

People on lw carbohydrate diets lose more water than fat and the weight usually returns after they resume normal eating. Stay away from them!

I'm Confused About Good and Bad Fats?

This can be confusing. Some fats can actually protect the body from heart disease and cancer. These are known as Omega 6 or Omega 9 fatty acids.

These monounsaturated fats or oils don't solidify when cooled. Try olive oil, canola oil or flaxseed oil. Fish can supply good fats in the way of Omega 3 oils which are great for your general health.

If you are getting around 35% of your calories from fats, you are probably well balanced.

Why do Calories From Fat Cause Higher Blood Sugar Levels Than Calories From Carbohydrates?

Because in certain people foods with a high proportion of animal fat can render insulin less effective. Keep your portions smaller and include vegetables and grains with your high fat foods.

Do I Have to Give Up Alcohol Completely?

Most people find that they can still enjoy a glass of wine with a meal. Stick to dry wines as these tend to have less effect on blood sugar. If drinking wine at night, make sure to check you blood sugar before going to bed.

Hopefully this diabetes nutrition information will clear up some confusion about controlling diabetes with diet. Eat sensibly, don't feel deprived and moniter you blood sugar levels regularly. You'll soon learn which foods are safe for you to eat and which to avoid. Remember we are all different.

By Wendy Owen

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