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Diabetes can easily worsen if patients do not adhere to strict dietary regimes. Alongside, over-restriction in diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies and bodily weakness. However, we can safely manage the condition through proper nutrition. So, what constitutes a sensible diet for diabetes patients? Let's explore the nutritional tower for diabetes patients to gain better insights!
1. Significance of the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
As we know, individuals with diabetes need to restrict many types of food to prevent the condition from worsening and avoid dangerous complications in the future. The nutritional tower for diabetes patients is designed with the purpose of helping patients effectively control their blood sugar levels. Consequently, patients will be aware of what foods to eat, and whether to consume them in abundance or in moderation.
1.1. Objectives of the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
Regarding nutritional principles for diabetes patients, there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. It depends on the individual's condition, preferences, and treatment goals. However, in summary, the main objective of this nutritional tower remains to help patients effectively manage their blood sugar levels while ensuring their bodies receive adequate nutrients.
1.2. Nutritional principles for diabetes patients
For diabetes patients, there are certain nutritional principles to follow:
Nutritional tower for diabetes aids in blood sugar control
Eat moderately, avoiding excessive restriction which may lower blood sugar levels. Avoid excessive intake of substances that may cause blood sugar levels to rise too high.
Ensure three balanced meals a day, if possible, consider dividing into four meals (add an additional snack in the evening).
Drink sufficient water daily, avoid excessive focus on one type of food.
2. Nutrient groups in the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
The nutritional tower for diabetes patients helps patients calculate the amount of food intake at each meal. Specifically, it includes the following food groups:
2.1. Fiber-rich food group
It can be said that the fiber-rich food group is always present in the meals of diabetes patients. This food group provides patients with many nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, etc. Patients can eat light dishes such as boiled vegetables, salads, or some stir-fries (only to vary meals, not to eat too much).
Why do diabetes patients need to supplement so much fiber? That's because fiber slows down the absorption of sugar from food into the blood. As a result, blood sugar levels don't suddenly spike or drop too low. The fiber-rich food group supports the treatment process to proceed smoothly.
Some types of vegetables recommended for diabetes patients include: spinach, kale, turnips, beets,...
Fiber helps diabetes patients control blood sugar levels
According to experts' recommendations, diabetes patients should consume at least 14g of fiber/1000kcal per day. Specifically, men should consume 38g/1000kcal/day, and women should consume 25g of fiber/1000kcal/day.
2.2. Starch group in the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
In the nutritional tower for diabetes patients, the starch group remains a priority. However, this is also a nutrient group that patients need to pay special attention to. After consuming high-carbohydrate foods, blood sugar levels tend to rise. In meals, the recommended carbohydrate ratio is 55 - 65% of total energy intake. Sources of starch that patients should consume include: rice (avoid sticky rice), sweet potatoes (except sweet potato fries), various grains,... Limit the use of simple sugars, sweet pastries, carbonated drinks, and candies as much as possible.
Although foods may have equal amounts of starch, their ability to be converted into sugar and absorbed varies. Each food will have a different glycemic index (GI). The GI indicates the ability to increase blood sugar after eating.
Diabetes patients should pay attention to this index when choosing foods and opt for those with a low GI. This will help patients control blood sugar levels more easily and improve lipid metabolism. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes patients should consume moderate amounts of starch-rich foods
If we categorize foods according to the GI index, we will have 3 groups:
- Group of foods with GI ≤ 5% carbohydrates - mostly vegetables.
- Group of foods with GI ≤ 10% carbohydrates.
- Group of foods with GI ≤ 20% carbohydrates.
2.3. Protein-rich group for diabetes patients
According to the nutritional tower for diabetes patients, the amount of protein patients should consume is between 12 - 15% of their diet. If patients do not have kidney damage, they can supplement more.
The reason diabetes patients can supplement higher protein levels is because carbohydrate intake is often restricted while the body's needs still need to be met. However, protein supplementation should not exceed 20%. and there needs to be a balance between the two protein sources: plant-based and animal-based protein as shown in the nutritional tower for diabetes patients.
2.4. Oil and fat group in the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
Experts recommend diabetes patients limit the use of fats. Patients should only limit fat intake rather than completely eliminate it. Because fats provide energy, a necessary condition to absorb other nutrients. Therefore, in the nutritional tower for diabetes patients, fats are placed on the second tier from the top down.
Diabetes patients should consume a maximum of 20 grams of sugar per day
The amount of fat energy that diabetes patients consume should be less than 25% of the total energy of the diet. In this, saturated fat should be limited, and unsaturated fat should be increased. It will help effectively control diabetes and prevent atherosclerosis.
2.5. Sugar and salt group for diabetes patients
At the top of the nutritional tower for diabetes patients are sugar and salt. As recommended in the nutritional tower, diabetes patients should consume a maximum of 6 grams of salt per day. And the amount of sugar should not exceed 18 grams per day. Salty processed foods, sweet pastries, sugary drinks, carbonated beverages,... are foods that diabetes patients should avoid.
3. Proper use of the nutritional tower for diabetes patients
Through the nutritional tower for diabetes patients, we can draw the following notes:
Notes in the diet for diabetes patients
- Patients can freely eat foods with ≤ 5% carbohydrate content.
- For foods with 10 - 20% carbohydrate content, consumption should be limited.
- Foods such as cakes, candies, sodas, preserves, dried fruits,... (carbohydrate content greater than 29%) should be completely avoided.
- Ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. These are mostly found in fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Consume plenty of fiber-rich foods: fruits, vegetables, oats,... They help control sudden blood sugar spikes and prevent constipation.
- Individuals being treated with insulin, which has a slow onset, should supplement with an extra snack before bed to avoid nocturnal hypoglycemia.
Applying the nutritional tower for diabetes patients in daily diet will help patients control their condition. Additionally, it also helps prevent future complications. Alongside dietary regimen, patients should engage in gentle physical exercises to maintain flexibility and good physical fitness.
