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Diabetes Diet Guidelines A dietary guideline for diabetes is necessary so that the blood glucose and lipid levels are maintained at normal, to achieve an ideal body weight, to prevent any complications related to diabetes and to gain an overall good health.
Consume more of complex carbohydrates that are present in cereals and pulses rather than simple carbohydrates present in jams, jellies, sugar, jaggery and sweets. It is generally recommended that 60 to 65% of the total calories for the day should be provided by carbohydrates.Fibre rich foods are beneficial.
Proteins from vegetable sources are useful than animal sources as they can add fiber and do not contribute cholesterol. About 15 to 20% of the calories can be derived from protein.
High fat diets can increase the body weight. It is recommended that 15 to 25% of total calories can be derived from fat. Diabetics should avoid hydrogenated fat and animal fats like butter, clarified butter. Prefer vegetable oils that too in moderation. Non vegetarians can have chicken without skin instead of egg, liver and brain that contains high cholesterol.
Fruits should be consumed by diabetics in moderate amounts as they are rich in antioxidants and soluble fiber.
Regular exercise with reduced food intake helps in reduction of body weight and lipids. Diabetics should undertake regular exercises like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming etc.
Patient education and self monitoring is necessary .They should neither skip a meal nor drugs. Urine and blood should be tested very often and doctor should be consulted as and when necessary.
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