When dealing with diabetes eating can help or hinder how you feel on a daily basis. While there are many foods that aren’t good for diabetics, there are also many healthy but tasty foods that are great for those dealing with diabetes. DTS Buyers advise people with diabetes to limit packaged and processed foods, when dining out make wise choices, eat whole grains rather than white flour and limit items with added sweeteners which includes sugar and artificial sweeteners. It’s also good to know that healthy fats are an important part of a healthy balanced diet for diabetics.
Limit Packaged and Processed Foods
There are some times when these are convenient but it’s always better to make your own foods when possible. Look for items that contain whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Often these foods have added sugar where your wouldn’t expect it. Also check labels for artificial sweeteners which in many cases can be worse than just a small amount of a natural sweetener. When making items at home you can sweeten things with honey or maple syrup which are minimally processed but still give a nice flavor. When having dessert limit your other carbs throughout the day and truly savor what you’re eating.
Make Wise Choices When Dining Out
Many fast food choices are filled with added salt and sweeteners. You have to be smart when making choices from a fast food menu. Salads can be a great option if you don’t overload them with a rich dressing, which likely has added sugar. A vinaigrette dressing can be a good option. Also something like a grilled chicken sandwich on a whole grain bun is a good choice. Even pizza can be enjoyed if you go for a thin crust, whole grain if available, and load it up with veggies.
Healthy Fats are Vital
Many people believe low-fat or no-fat food to be healthier but over the past few years it has been shown that eating whole fat foods can actually make you feel fuller longer. These healthy fats are also much better for your as low-fat and no-fat foods tend to have extras added in them, like sweeteners and salt, to add back some taste that was removed with the fat. Fats are essential to the body functioning properly. Choosing things like olive oil, coconut oil, avocado and nuts can help you feel full and satisfied after a meal. Read labels and avoid things with hydrogenated oils which are the unhealthy fats and are found in many packaged foods including crackers, sauces and even bread.
Whole Grains
You can have things like bread, rice and pasta. Look for ones that are made with the whole grain rather than white flour. Whole grains contain more nutrients which lead to feeling fuller longer. If you like cereal in the morning look for one that is low in sweeteners but high in fiber. Homemade, not packaged, oatmeal is also a great option. You can sweeten your oatmeal with fresh fruit and honey or maple syrup.
Having diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t eat tasty foods. You just have to learn to read labels and to know what ingredients to avoid. A healthy diet can actually improve your health overall and can help control your diabetes. When dining out, especially with fast food, make wise choices and avoid fried foods. Those with diabetes can even enjoy favorites like dessert or pizza as long as you follow a few guidelines. The most important thing to remember is that you can still enjoy many of your favorite foods with some modifications. Whole grains, natural sweeteners and healthy fats are all wholesome ingredients that also taste great.
