Diabetes Diet Chart

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(November 16, 2010)

Diabetes Diet Chart

Diabetes is basically a medical condition wherein the body of the concerned individual is unable to produce or make optimal us e of a hormone known as insulin. Insulin is the hormone that is responsible for the absorption of glucose into the cells of the body thereby giving the body the energy it requires to perform the various functions. If the body does not get sufficient amounts of insulin then the glucose does not get absorbed and remains in the blood. High blood glucose levels will in turn cause serious medical problems such s impaired functioning or damages of the nerves, eyes, kidneys, heart and so on. Most diabetics are under the impression that they have to give up the consumption of sugar completely.

However this may not really be required if they prepare and follow a diet chart for diabetic patients which is designed in such a manner that in ensures that their sugar levels are in place.


One of the most effective diabetic diet foods that help in lowering the levels of blood sugar are bitter gourd which may be consumed as a vegetable or even the juice of the bitter gourd is known to be very healthy. A diabetic diet plan should also include the consumption of fenugreek seeds which should ideally be consumed along with some water on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Similarly the diabetic diet chart should also incorporate the consumption of garlic either on its own or in ones meals as garlic is known to be a rich source of potassium which is beneficial for diabetics who may be losing a lot of potassium via urine. Garlic should also be an integral part of the diabetes diet chart as it is rich in zinc and sulphur which are some of the components of insulin. Those diagnosed with diabetes should also ensure that they include a lot of fibre rich foods in their diabetes diet chart especially foods that are rich in soluble fibres such as soybean, apples, oatmeal, kidneys beans and so on. Soluble fibres help in the right absorption of the various nutrients in the food and also help with slow digestion. Due to slow digestion and absorption of the nutrients  the release of glucose will also be slow which is essential for those suffering from diabetes. The diabetes diet chart should also include plenty of fresh drinking water and fresh vegetable and fruits juices to ensure that one stays well hydrated. Consumption of flaxseed should also be included in the diabetes diet chart food list as flaxseeds aid in the maintenance of the membranes of the cell and also promote the production of insulin. Thos who are diagnosed with diabetes are advised to eat small frequent meals and to avoid overeating or eating too little.

Along with strictly following a diabetes diet chart one should also include some form of physical activity or exercise such a cycling, walking, swimming and so on to control ones sugar levels. The diabetes diet chart should not include foods that are rich in fat, sugar as well as the consumption of alcohol should also be restricted. Hence foods like oil, butter, cheese and mayonnaise should be strictly avoided or minimized by those suffering from diabetes. The primary function of a diabetes diet chart is to ensure that the individual consumes a balanced meal with the right proportions of fats, proteins and carbohydrates which are required as they help in the release and absorption of glucose into the blood of the individual suffering from diabetes. One should always keep their blood sugar levels in the normal range which should be within 70 to 120mg/DL.

Diabetes Diet Chart 

Diabetes Diet Chart elucidates on the foods that are recommended from the Food Pyramid. The quantities allowed in terms of number of servings are listed. Individual diet charts are framed based on the dietary intake of the person. Also required are some basic details regarding the individuals, such as height, weight, age, sex and activity pattern of the individual. The likes and dislikes of the individual are also taken into consideration. General guidelines for a diabetic diet chart are as follows:

• A cup of coffee or tea without sugar is taken on rising.
• Breakfast comprises of any one of the usual items, such as wheat tortilla, steam rice cake, pan cake, khichdi and so on. Spicy condiment, vegetables, lentils or Sāmbhar is taken as an accompaniment. The quantities of the items are based on the caloric requirement.
• Intermediate snacks are recommended in between the breakfast and lunch. This helps in decreasing the appetite as well as prevents low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia. This is in the form of a salad, buttermilk and so on.
• Lunch is a combination of cereal and pulses. This ensures the supplementation of amino acids that are deficient in each other.  Vegetables that are yellow and orange are provided in addition to green leafy vegetables. Buttermilk is preferred to yoghurt. Skimmed or fat free yoghurt is helpful.
• Clear soups or salads or a fruits is recommended at tea time with a cup of sugar free tea or coffee. Skimmed milk is used for the same.
• Dinner is the same as lunch, though the quantity is reduced. Avoid sleeping right after meals. A brisk walk after meals proves helpful.
• About four or five meals are recommended, instead of the usual three large meals. This is to prevent hyperglycaemia. It also prevents overeating, as the appetite is suppressed.