Diabetic diet - the most important tips and dietary rules for diabetics

Diabetes is a metabolic disease in which nutrition plays a key role. It's important not only for improving the patient's well-being after meals but also for improving test results and, consequently, for proper therapy adjustments. Learn the principles of a diabetic diet with us!

Diabetic diet - who should follow it?

A diabetic diet is a set of principles that should be followed by people diagnosed with type 1 (insulin-dependent) or type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. A properly planned and daily diet for diabetics helps maintain normal blood glucose levels and prevents deterioration of well-being and other serious complications. For people diagnosed with diabetes, the diet should be implemented for the rest of their lives. A diabetes diet is one of the most important medical recommendations when planning and implementing therapy.

Diet for type 1 diabetics - what makes it unique?

Type 1 diabetes occurs primarily in children and adolescents. It is most often caused by an autoimmune process that leads to the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is incurable, so a diet for type 1 diabetes should be combined with a treatment regimen developed by doctors. The diet for type 1 diabetics is similar to that for type 2 diabetics.

Diet for type 2 diabetics - what makes it unique?

Type 2 diabetes is most often diagnosed in adults, particularly those with obesity. It is caused by genetic and environmental factors. A diet for type 2 diabetes should be characterized by the lowest possible intake of simple sugars, regardless of whether oral medications are also taken. Importantly, a diet for type 2 diabetics is also essential to maintaining good health for as long as possible.

Diabetic diet – rules

The most important goal to achieve with a diabetic diet is maintaining normal blood glucose levels. However, a diabetic diet shouldn't focus solely on sugars – nutritional guidelines should also include a sufficient supply of fats and proteins to support the body in maintaining an optimal body weight. Frequent, moderate physical activity and five regular, small meals a day, always at the same time each day, are also essential. For individuals prescribed a diabetic diet, these guidelines apply from the moment of diagnosis and practically throughout their lives.

What to eat with diabetes?

What can you eat with diabetes? The most important rule in this disease is to consume foods with a low glycemic index. So what should you eat with diabetes to maintain a low glycemic index? Whole grain products, which contain carbohydrates that are absorbed slowly and raise blood sugar levels, dairy products and dairy products, low-sugar fruits, low-starch vegetables, lean meats, and fish. Details are described in the section below: Diabetic Diet – What You Can and Can't Eat.

What fruits are good for diabetics?

Which fruits are best for diabetics, considering they provide large amounts of simple sugars? The best fruits for diabetics are low-sugar ones, such as citrus fruits, but also peaches, apples, blueberries, strawberries, currants, less ripe bananas, and cherries. Knowing which fruits can be eaten with diabetes, it's important to limit their intake—treating them as a small sweet dessert rather than a staple for breakfast or lunch.

Vegetables for diabetics

What vegetables can you eat with diabetes? Almost all, except those high in starch, such as potatoes, corn, beets, and pumpkin. Vegetables should form the basis of a balanced diet for diabetics, filling half their plate. This will ensure satiety and maintain optimal body weight. It's worth paying attention to which vegetables end up on the table with diabetes, as they play a significant role in such a high percentage of meals!

Can you drink alcohol if you have diabetes?

Sweetened alcohol or beer can raise blood sugar levels and are therefore not recommended for this condition. However, even pure vodka is not a good choice, especially with neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes. So what alcohol can you drink with type 2 diabetes? Alcohol in any form is not recommended for diabetes. However, if you crave it, opt for a small amount of dry red wine, which contains minimal sugar.

What milk for diabetes?

Milk is a good source of protein and vitamins, but it contains the milk sugar lactose. So which milk should you choose for diabetes? You can opt for its alternative – soy milk. What about cow's milk? Which milk is suitable for diabetics? It has a low glycemic index, so it's not forbidden in small quantities; however, it's better to choose semi-skimmed or low-fat milk to maintain a healthy body weight.

Bread for diabetics

Bread is one of the most important foods for diabetics. What kind of bread is best for diabetics? Choose one made with whole wheat flour, or with added seeds or pits. It's not only delicious but also nutritious!

What not to eat with diabetes?

Now that we know what to eat, let's also check out what you shouldn't eat with diabetes? Especially sugar, sweets, and baked goods! White wheat bread, breakfast cereals, millet, white rice, most gluten-free grain products, and fatty meats are also not recommended. Knowing what not to eat with diabetes will make it much easier to plan your shopping and create interesting menus!

What fruits can't you eat if you have diabetes?

It's also worth knowing which fruits you shouldn't eat if you have diabetes. Avoid very sweet fruits, such as candied fruits, watermelon, or ripe bananas, as they quickly raise blood sugar levels.

Diabetes and honey

Can you eat honey with type 2 diabetes? This product contains a comparable amount of simple sugars to white sugar, so it's not a good substitute.

What to sweeten with diabetes?

Choosing the right sweetener for diabetes is also crucial. Erythritol or xylitol are the best choices for diabetics because they contain no calories, don't cause tooth decay, and don't raise blood sugar levels. Instead, they add a sweet taste to foods and drinks. What to drink with type 2 diabetes? Hydration is crucial because it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Opt for unsweetened herbal teas, green tea, and ideally, enjoy plain water—still or sparkling, without added sweeteners.

Lemon water and diabetes

Can you drink lemon water with diabetes? This is a very common question! It's even recommended! It's excellent for hydration, contains no simple sugars, so it doesn't negatively impact blood sugar levels, and provides valuable vitamin C, which is essential in a daily diet.

What coffee to take with diabetes?

Have you found out you have diabetes and don't want to give up your morning caffeine fix? What's the best coffee for diabetes? Black, unsweetened, with milk if desired, no more than 3 cups a day.

Supplements and vitamins for diabetes

It's also worth knowing which vitamins are worth taking for type 2 diabetes. Supplements for type 2 diabetes help supplement your diet with essential nutrients and support healthy blood sugar levels. What vitamins are missing in diabetes? Deficiencies resulting from a poor diet combined with impaired glucose metabolism can lead to poor well-being. Therefore, you can take multivitamins rich in B vitamins, which support the proper functioning of the nervous system, which can degenerate in this disease. White mulberry, berberine, and curcumin are among the leaders. Living with diabetes is possible – but it's worth focusing on maintaining good health and fitness by changing your lifestyle and eating habits!