Diet

A proper diet is an essential factor in treating and controlling diabetes. In fact, for many insulin-dependent diabetics, a program of weight control and diet alone is sufficient to treat the disorder. A specific diet should be tailored for each person, but the basic approach is to help patients maintain a normal weight, and limit the total intake of carbohydrates. A healthy diet not only helps control weight, but also can help control your blood glucose levels. Careful attention should be paid to consuming the proper amount of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Not only sugars, but all carbohydrates must be monitored, as they too can cause your blood sugar to rise. Most doctors suggest a diet that's low in fat and contains plenty of fiber. It's believed that soluble fiber in particular can help even out the sharp increases in blood sugar that can occur after a meal. In addition, consumption of alcohol should be regulated, as it can cause glucose levels to fall, possibly leading to hypoglycemia (HIGH-poe-gly-SEE-me-uh), or low blood sugar. For more information on diabetes and diet, consult your physician.