Here is the newest question from FOODPICKER.org:
My doctor has diagnosed me with diabetes and has told me to lose weight. I have heard about high protein diets, low-fat/high carb diets, and many others. I want a sound diet instead of a fad. What type of diet is best given my situation?
A sound diet would not be a diet, but a lifestyle change. This is something you can maintain for the long run and still be satisfied and happy with the choices you make.
Many people with diabetes try to eat about 45-60 grams of carbohydrates per meal to keep blood sugars stable; if you have had the opportunity to speak with a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) or endocrinologist they can help you tailor the amount of carbohydrates you need based on the diabetes management plan you have set up.
Otherwise, a good place to start with your diet would be with portion size. Try to watch the size of plates, bowls, and cups you use at home. Try to also fill have your plate with vegetables, and the rest with about a quarter protein, and a quarter starch. If you’re able to increase the complex carbohydrates in your diet (fruits, whole grains) this is a great step in a healthier diet and lifestyle versus eating more simple carbohydrates like cookies and candy.
Exercise and diet go hand-in-hand and with changes in your diet weight loss should be possible. Weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week is a healthy plan. In order to lose a pound a week you would need to eat 500 fewer calories or burn 500 more calories a day (1 pound = 3500 calories; 500 calories x 7 days = 3500 calories lost).
The small changes you make to your diet can have a big impact on you health and lifestyle. A great resource is Bob Greene’s “The Best Life Guide to Managing Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes,” Greene takes a healthy approach to making progressive, step-by-step diet changes. The book is also a useful reference along the way once you’ve had a chance to apply the above dietary changes and you’re looking to continuing to make further lifestyle changes.
