|
Sugar & Diabetes
Can I eat sugar?
In the past, when someone was diagnosed with diabetes, they
were told they should not eat sugar. The thinking was that sugar affected
blood sugar more than complex carbohydrates (table sugar compared to a slice of bread)
That thinking has shifted. Sugar has no greater effect on blood sugar than complex carbohydrates.
All carbohydrates are considered fairly equal as far as affecting blood sugar.
Are there some sugars I should avoid?
Sugary snacks are often termed "empty calorie" foods.
These foods do not contain much nutritional value but contain calories and often
fat. Empty calorie foods include cookies, cakes, ice cream, etc. Everyone
should limit empty calorie foods, not just those with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Are there some sugar foods that are healthy to eat?
Milk, yogurt, and fruits are high in simple sugars but do contain vitamins and minerals. These
foods should be incorporated in the diet. Portion sizes should be noted.
What's a portion?
Eight fluid ounces of milk or 8 oz. of yogurt is considered a serving. Low fat or fat free dairy products will help save calories.
One small orange or apple, 3/4 cup of berries, or 1 cup of melon is a serving of fruit.
Fruits provide vitamins and fiber which help delay sugar absorption into the blood.
Fruit juices do not contain fiber and should be limited. Serving sizes of juice are 1/3-1/2
cup depending on the juice. A serving of light cranberry cocktail juice is 8 fl. oz.
What about complex carbohydrates?
Complex carbohydrates are another category of carbohydrates. Examples of
complex carbohydrates are bread, rice, pasta, and potatoes. Understanding portion sizes will help you to plan your meals
more effectively. One serving equals 1 slice of bread, 1/3 cup rice, 1/3 cup pasta, or 1 6-inch tortilla.
Focusing on whole grain complex carbohydrates helps increase fiber.
The main goal with diabetes is controlling blood sugar and
avoiding complications. Eating even amounts of carbohydrates throughout the day can help control blood sugar. Be aware of eating
"empty calorie" carbohydrates and eat a variety of carbohydrate containing foods.
Talk with your diabetes educator or dietitian to plan your
diet. Remember all types of carbohydrate will increase blood sugar.
Choose carbohydrates that will provide your body with the most benefit more often.
New Diabetes Research
|
|
