The Diabetes Food Pyramid

Posted in Diets And Diabetesby Max PeykarPrint

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The diabetic food pyramid now called “My Pyramid” has been designed especially keeping in mind the special diet requirements of diabetes type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.

There are six groups in the Diabetes Food Pyramid. The largest group consists of beans, grains and starchy vegetables. This group is at the bottom and you must have it in maximum quantity. You should have least of sweets, fats and alcohol, which are at the peak of the diabetic food pyramid.

We all know that the human body needs carbohydrates for energy. Whole grains like whole wheat bread, oatmeal and rice (especially brown) give you carbohydrates. These food categories help in controlling type 2 diabetes by keeping your hunger in control.

You should try and have a slice of bread, ¾ cup dry cereal, 1 cup winter squash, ½ cup cooked cereal, ½ an English muffin or pita bread, ½ cup potato, yam, peas, corn, or cooked beans /1, 6 inch tortilla, ¼ of a bagel (1 ounce) and1/3 cup of rice or pasta.

There is even plant oil at the base of the food pyramid. It is something that is unthinkable. Having oil in diabetes is against common belief but research shows that it is perfectly ok if you want to have oil. But do take care to have plant oil and not all types of fat. Olive oil, soy, canola, corn, peanut, sunflower and various other sources or plant oil are good for you. The healthy fats in the oil help you in improving your cholesterol levels and help you in keeping your heart fit.

For your proper treatment and control of different types of diabetes you must have fruits 2-3 times a day and also have vegetables in abundance. You should have chicory; Swiss chard, spinach, cabbage, sorrel, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, kale and lettuce etc. Fruits like oranges, strawberries, apples, peaches, bananas, grapes and apricots include carbohydrates and you must stick to 2-4 helpings a day.

Poultry, Fish, and Eggs are important sources for protein. You must have it 0-2 times a day but not more. Milk is high in protein and calcium so you should have non-fat or low fat dairy products. Try to have fish, poultry and lean meat and avoid visible fat meat.

Have only 4-6 ounces in a day. It is a known fact that that eating fish reduces the risk of heart disease. You should also have turkey and Chicken. They are excellent sources of protein. They are very low in saturated fat. Even Eggs, which are considered to be very high in cholesterol level, can be better than oil soaked meal or snack. Dairy products have always been an Americans’ chief means of obtaining calcium. However you should stick to low-fat or non-fat products.

You should try and have legumes and Nuts 1 to 3 times. They are rich means of getting minerals, vitamins, fiber and protein. Most nuts contain good fats are very good for your heart.

In any case you, as diabetic type 1, type 2 or gestational diabetic, must work out closely with your dietician or doctor before embarking on any diet changes.

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