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Healthy Nutrition for Diabetics There is no fixed diet, though the guidelines and principle are the same. A proper diet for diabetes is that which succeeds in maintaining the blood glucose levels at the normal levels. Eating a healthy diet with all the essential nutrients is helpful. The food pyramid is one of the best ways of combating the increase in blood sugar levels. Cereals and pulses form the base of the pyramid. Whole grains, bran, cereals, pulses and legumes are helpful as complex carbohydrates. About 40 grams of dietary fibre is helpful. A moderate protein diet with reduced fat is effective. Protein is supplied by fish, eggs, chicken meat, pulses, legumes, milk and milk products. Fish also provides the omega 3 fatty acids, essential for diabetes.
Bakery products and processed foods are avoided. French fries, burgers, potato chips are not included. At least five exchanges of fruits and vegetables are recommended. Fresh foods in the wholesome state are useful than processed and tinned foods. Alcohol and smoking are averted, as changes in lifestyle. Desserts are not included. They can also be substituted for fruit salads, low fat yoghurt and so on. Honey, invert sugar, table sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, fructose and glucose are not recommended.
Free foods are preferred in case of hunger during dieting. They are those foods that provide less than 20 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrate in one serving. A cup of raw cabbage, radish, mushroom, celery, zucchini, cucumber and radishes are certain vegetables that are free foods. Low sodium bouillon, coffee or tea devoid of sugar, cranberries, unsweetened rhubarb, and unsweetened cocoa powder and so on are the other free foods. Long term weight control is helpful in keeping the blood glucose levels at the minimal.
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