If you have diabetes, or if your doctor believes you are at risk of developing diabetes, it is vital that you pay special attention to the quality of your diet. How can you make the right choices? Here are a few guidelines to help you improve your eating habits.
When people learn they have diabetes, it becomes inevitable for them to make some changes to their lifestyle, such as:
If this is the case for you, these measures, although essential, might not sound so enjoyable. But don’t worry; you will succeed in reaching your goals for a healthier you by taking things one day at a time. One of the most effective ways to successfully manage your diabetes is adapting your diet to this new reality.
If your doctor has told you that you have pre-diabetes, meaning that you are at increased risk of developing the disease, losing weight and adopting healthier eating habits will contribute to delaying the progress of full-blown diabetes.
If you have already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your doctor may have told you that you need to lose weight. Indeed, this type of diabetes is closely associated with being overweight or obese. A more balanced diet and losing weight will provide you with many benefits, such as:
If you suffer from type 1 diabetes, it is just as important to follow a diet that takes into account your specific needs and your use of insulin.
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We often eat food without knowing exactly what it contains. If you have diabetes, it is even more important for you to be aware of what you are eating and to take the time to read the labels on the food you buy. Take the time to check:
No matter what type of diabetes you have (type 1 or 2), you will most likely have to make some changes to your diet. - Marie‑Claude Thivierge, Brunet's affiliated pharmacist-owner at the Hétrière branch.
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You are probably familiar with Canada’s Food Guide, but did you know that there is a publication called Meal Planning for People with Diabetes (in French only)? Inspired by Canada’s Food Guide, it is designed to help nutritionists and diabetes sufferers create a customized meal plan and integrate it to their daily lives.
Seek the assistance of a nutrition specialist to help you’re your food choices. Nutritionists are health professionals who can help you create an adapted diet, which will allow you to reach or maintain optimal blood-sugar levels and a healthy weight.
To find out about available resources in your area, contact your local CLSC or ask your pharmacist.
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If you are serious about adopting healthier eating habits as part of a diabetes-management plan, here are some useful tips:
To succeed in managing diabetes and limiting its consequences on your health, you will undoubtedly have to make some changes to your lifestyle. To ensure long-lasting changes, it is essential that you do so gradually, step by step, with specific goals.
Chances are that your efforts will be rewarded with much more than benefits for your diabetes; indeed, the feeling of well-being and pride you’ll experience will make your hard work truly worthwhile!
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