Scientific nutrition to control diabetes

There is growing evidence demonstrating the role of nutrition in disease control, especially that nutrition plays a key role in controlling and preventing complications of diabetes, a chronic disease that is on the rise in Vietnam.

Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a chronic disease that cannot be completely cured. Patients can be completely healthy if they follow a reasonable diet and lifestyle. A scientific diet not only helps stabilize blood sugar, but also prevents dangerous complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, blindness, etc.

According to nutritionists, there is no one diet that is absolutely suitable for all diabetic patients. The diet needs to be built according to the physical condition, blood sugar index, disease level and personal preferences. However, the core goal is still to stabilize blood sugar and maintain overall health.

Patients need to eat on time, divide meals into small portions (3 main meals, 1 snack), supplement enough water (40ml/kg body weight/day), and should not abstain from any food group. It is important to eat enough quantity and quality, not too full, not too hungry.

The recommended diet for diabetics is based on a nutritional pyramid consisting of 4 main food groups, from what should be prioritized to what should be limited:

Starch and cereal group: Prioritize brown rice and sweet potatoes, limit white bread and potatoes. Even if you are a diabetic, you still need starch for energy, it is important to choose the type with a low glycemic index.

Vegetables and fruits group: Green vegetables, squash, seaweed... are rich in fiber and vitamins. On average, patients need to consume at least 14g of fiber/1000kcal per day. This group helps slow down sugar absorption and improve digestion.

Protein and vitamin group: Lean meat, fish, eggs, unsweetened soy milk, and tofu are healthy sources of protein. Avoid animal skin and animal fat if you are obese.

Good fats: Prioritize vegetable oils such as olive oil and soybean oil. Avoid eating a lot of animal organs, canned foods, and oils that are fried many times.

In addition, diabetics should limit foods with high carbohydrate content (over 20%) such as candy, soft drinks, dried fruits. They should eat a bland diet (less than 2300mg of salt/day), and avoid alcohol completely, especially on an empty stomach, because it can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar.

In addition, a sports regime is also an indispensable part. Gentle exercise such as walking, yoga or cycling 30 minutes a day will help improve insulin sensitivity and lose weight effectively.

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in controlling diabetes and improving the quality of life for patients. Eating properly not only helps stabilize blood sugar but also prevents dangerous complications. A proper diet, combined with reasonable exercise and regular check-ups are the "key" to controlling and living well with diabetes.

Source: https://soyte.camau.gov.vn/bai-khoa-hoc-chinh-tri-va-xa-hoi/dinh-duong-khoa-hoc-kiem-soat-benh-tieu-duong-287708