Diabetes Diet Plan

Diabetes is a disease which needs prolonged medication & proper routine.
It is diagnosed not because of excessive sugar intake but once diagnosed sugar is strictly prohibited. The person suffering needs to plan its schedule to ensure a healthy & preventive routine. This disease demand a strict schedule of what to eat, how much to eat & when to eat.
Regular walks are must for a diabetic, so the day should start with at least one hour of walk. Walking should comprise at least 30 minutes of brisk walking. Stress yoga must be avoided by diabetic. Breakfast must be taken on time as fasting is injurious to the diabetic. After the dinner there is a huge gap till breakfast. Breakfast needs to be rich in fiber & low calorie. Meal intake can be six in a day but quantity needs to be watched carefully. Small frequent meals are most preferred meal for a diabetic. Food intake needs to be rich in protein & low in carbohydrate. The day must progress with healthy & timely food to keep the energy level intact in body.
Diabetic needs to have regular follow up with doctor.  Eyes & kidney needs an extra attention, so a semiannual check up or as prescribed by the doctor, regular check up   is recommended. Heart check up is also must as diabetes frequently has associated heart problems. A diabetic needs to get the check up done regularly for the prevention of any further complications.

The traditional system of medicine popularly known as Ayurveda has been using Neem Tree as a rich source of medicines to cure Diabetes with many other diseases. Neem tree is found in countries like India & Burma. Today the Neem has got due recognition as safest medicine, thanks to all the researchers involved at international level.
Each & every part of Neem tree is used as medicine It is the most safe herb as it is without any side effects.  Neem leaf extract as well seed are very effective in diabetes control. Neem extracts help to reduce the blood glucose level. It also improves the blood circulation in the body. It is proved that neem is without any side effect, but neem administration should be done in consultation with a physician only.
Daily intake of neem substance improves the immunity of body. Neem is termed as anti inflammatory, anti septic, anti bacterial & anti viral by the researchers.
Today neem has been used on a commercial basis to provide complete health care. Neem has curative powers. Neem can help cure diabetes in a safe manner as it cures the disease & has no side effect. Neem extract has been used to make tablets to ease the oral intake of neem. Daily administration of neem helps a lot to diabetic Now even a diabetic can have a better fight with the disease, thanks to Neem.

Diabetes is a situation where in human body is not able to convert Insulin, a hormone that converts salt, sugar & starches into energy. Diabetes is very common dieses in US. Many people are dying due to this disease as either they are not aware about the disease or there is no one to guide them for the cure of the disease.
More than medicines care & precautions play a vital role in cure of diabetes. A diabetic needs to have small six meals a day. The timing needs to be such that there is no break longer than 3 hours between 2 meals. Person suffering must avoid fasting for longer time as this can aggravate the problem .Diabetic needs to avoid food full of oil, ghee & most important sweet A sugar intake is like poison to the disease. Person suffering must develop the habit of walking at least one hour a day. Morning. Evening walk gives a great relief to the body.

People with excess weight, family history of diabetes & stressful life are more prone to it. Routine exercise also helps in avoiding the problem of diabetes. Person suffering must stand up for itself & take active initiative in eradicating the problem on time before it gets too late. Diabetes is a disease which kills the person silently if not treated on time.

The name “fenugreek” or foenum-graecum is Latin name for “Greek hay”. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant in the family Fabaceae. It is cultivated worldwide as a semi-arid crop and is frequently used in preparing curry. Fenugreek has a history of being used for medicinal purpose and can even treat diabetes.

Several human intervention trials demonstrated that the antidiabetic effects of fenugreek seeds ameliorate most metabolic symptoms associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes in humans by reducing serum glucose and improving glucose tolerance. Fenugreek is currently available commercially in encapsulated forms and is being prescribed as dietary supplements for the control of hypercholesterolemia and diabetes by practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine.

Fenugreek seeds contain alkaloids, including trigonelline and gentianine. The mechanism is thought to delay gastric emptying, slow carbohydrate absorption and inhibit glucose transport. Fenugreek may also increase the number of insulin receptors in red blood cells and improve glucose utilization in peripheral tissues, thus demonstrating potential anti-diabetes effects both in the pancreas and other sites. The amino acid 4- hydroxyisoleucine, contained in the seeds, may also directly stimulate insulin secretion.

Working in a similar way to the common antidiabetic drug glibenclamide, fenugreek lowers cellular insulin resistance and controls blood glucose homeostasis. It has been shown to lower blood glucose levels of Type II diabetics by as much as 46 percent. It also increases the levels of several important antioxidants and reduces the damaging oxidation of lipids associated with diabetes.

Unlike many articles, this article mentions about the non vegetarian food that a diabetic can eat and still remain healthy.

1)     All meat – lamb, beef, pork, bacon, etc

2)     Include the organ meats: liver, kidneys, heart, as these contain the widest range of the vitamins and minerals your body needs (liver has 4 times as much Vitamin C as apples and pears, for example)

3)     All poultry: chicken (with the skin on), goose, duck, turkey, etc. But be aware that turkey is very low in fat, so fat needs to be added.

4)     Continental sausage (beware of British sausage which usually has a high cereal content)

5)     All animal and meat fats – without restriction – never cut the fat off meat.

6)     Fish and seafood of all types

Eggs (no limit, but avoid “omega-3 eggs” as these have been artificially fed which upsets the natural fatty acid profile)

1)      Sugar and artificial sweeteners, including honey. The only allowed sweetener is stevia. (sugar is a problem as it is addictive. It is suggested that you cut down gradually until you can do without. The other option is to go ‘cold turkey’ and stop it altogether. This will give you withdrawal symptoms, just like stopping any other addictive drug. But this will wear off within about two weeks.)

2)      Sweets and chocolates, including so-called sugar-free types. (If you want a chocolate treat, say once a week, then eat Continental dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa solids, not the British stuff where sugar is the first named ingredient)

3)      “Diet” and “sugar-free” foods (except sugar-free jelly)

4)      Grains and foods made from them: wheat, rye, barley, corn, rice, bread, pasta, pastry, cakes, biscuits, pies, tarts, breakfast cereals, et cetera.

5)      Starchy vegetables: potatoes and parsnips in particular; and go easy with beet, carrots, peas, beans, et cetera and packets of mixed vegetables which might contain them.

6)      Beans with the exception of runner beans

7)      Milk and Cottage cheese (except in small quantities)

8)      Sweetened, fruit and low-fat yogurts

9)      Beware of commercially packaged foods such as TV dinners, “lean” or “light” in particular, and fast foods, snack foods and “health foods”.

10)  Fruit juices, as these are much higher in carbs than fresh fruit. (If you like fruit juices as a drink, dilute about 1 part fruit juice with 2-4 parts water.)

Diabetes affects different people in different ways depending on their degree of diabetic complication. But, while different amounts of carbs may be eaten for this reason, the type of foods to eat and to avoid is almost the same for all.

Diabetics often ask whether it is safe for them to eat large quantities of fruit. Many people suffering from diabetes avoid eating fruits because they are worried about the high sugar content present in most of the fruits. However, fortunately, there are many fruits a diabetic can enjoy which do not significantly affect blood glucose levels.

Fibre rich foods are generally safe for diabetics to eat because they do not spike blood sugar levels to the same extent as other fruits do. This is because fibre slows down the absorption of sugar into the blood stream. Fibre rich fruits tend to be fruits with edible skins and seeds as it are these parts of the fruit that are highest in fibre. Fruits high in fibre include (fibre content in brackets): apples (2.5%), pears (2.1%), apricots (2.1%), blueberries (2.7%), kiwifruit (2.1%), pomegranates (3.4%), and avocados (6.7%).

The avocado is not only high in fibre, but is also a rich source of monounsaturated fat. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a diet high in monounsaturated fat as it can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease which is more common in diabetics than the general population. There is also some evidence that a diet rich in monounsaturated fat can improve glycaemic control.

These fruits help to control blood sugar, levels. Due to their law glycaemic index, they promote a gradual increase in the blood sugar level which is highly beneficial to diabetics. Fresh lime also helps a lot by providing vitamins and minerals to the diabetic, person.

Fruits high in fructose, and those with high fructose to glucose ratios are also beneficial to diabetics because fructose does not require insulin to metabolize and therefore can be enjoyed by insulin resistant diabetics. High fructose fruits include apples, pears, guavas, and mangoes, – all of which have fructose to glucose ratios greater than 2.

Along with high fibre and fructose levels, apples have added benefits for people with diabetes. Raw apples contain high amounts of pectin which has been shown to improve glycaemic control in diabetics, reducing insulin requirements by up to 50% in some cases.

Grapefruit is another fruit which may be beneficial for diabetics. Grapefruit can promote weight loss which in turn helps reduce insulin resistance. According to the Scripps institute, grapefruit may also help control insulin levels when consumed during meal times.

By keeping this mind, you can control the diabetes, enjoy the fruits and live a happy life.

1)     Commitment: First and foremost key to successful diabetes management is to commit yourself to treat/ avoid diabetes.  Doctor, medicines, friends, relatives and family will help you and encourage you to fight diabetes, however, only you can cure diabetes with your willpower and determination. Always remember, no one has greater stake in your health than you.

2)     Learn more about diabetes: The more you are aware about causes and reasons of diabetes, the easier it will be for you to fight it. You can know what is good for your health and what is causing harm. By knowing that many others in world have cured their diabetes will motivate you and keep you going.

3)     Diet management: If you are a diabetic, more than eating less, equally important aspect is what you eating. Make eating healthy and include lot of vegetables and fruits. Avoid the fruits that a diabetic should not have. Eat at regular intervals in small portions. Very critical component salt shall be managed very carefully.

4)     Stop smoking: As per American Diabetes Association, smokers who have diabetes are three times more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than are non smokers who have diabetes. If you smoke, ask the doctor to help you quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of various diabetes complications, including heart attack, stroke, and nerves damage and kidney disease.

5)     Exercise: Physical exercise is as important as any other routine of the day. Maintain a healthy weight. People with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly for better blood sugar control and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The reason for this is that muscles which are working use more glucose than those that are resting.

6)     Take an aspirin daily: Aspirin reduces blood’s ability to clot. Taking an aspirin daily can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke — major concerns for a diabetic. In fact, daily aspirin therapy is recommended for most people who have diabetes. However, first ask your doctor about daily aspirin therapy, including which strength of aspirin would be best suited for you.

7)     Take stress seriously: It is easy to neglect usual diabetes care routine if you are stressed. The hormones body may produce in response to the prolonged stress may prevent insulin from working properly, which only makes the matter worse. To take control, set limits and prioritize the tasks. Learn relaxation techniques and get plenty of sleep.

8)     Pay attention to your feet: High blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet and reduce blood flow to your feet. If left untreated, cuts and blisters can lead to serious infections. To prevent foot problems:

• Wash your feet daily in lukewarm water.
• Dry your feet gently, especially between the toes.
• Moisturize your feet and ankles with lotion.
• Check your feet every day for blisters, cuts, sores, redness or swelling.
• Consult your doctor if you have a sore or other foot problem that doesn’t start to heal within a few days.

9)     Take care of your teeth: Diabetes may make you prone to gum infections. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss your teeth once a day, and schedule dental exams at regular intervals, say at least twice or thrice a year. Consult your dentist right away if your gums bleed or look red or swollen.

10)  Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control: Like diabetes, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels. High cholesterol is a concern, too, since the damage is often worse and more rapid for a diabetic. When these conditions team up, they can lead to a heart attack, stroke or other life-threatening conditions.  Hence, it is important to keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control.

Above all, stay positive. Diabetes care is within control. If you’re willing to do your part sincerely and regularly, diabetes won’t stand in the way of an active, healthy and happy life.

People with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly for better blood sugar control and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The reason for this is that muscles which are working use more glucose than those that are resting.

Muscle movement leads to greater sugar uptake by muscle cells and lower blood sugar levels. There are some exercise precautions which people with diabetes must take, however, when done safely, exercise is a valuable aid to optimal health. Research has shown that physical activity can:

* lower your blood glucose and your blood pressure

* lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol

* improve your body’s ability to use insulin

* lower your risk for heart disease and stroke

* keep your heart and bones strong

* keep your joints flexible

* lower your risk of falling

* help you lose weight

* reduce your body fat

* give you more energy

* reduce your stress

There are 3 areas of safety to consider with exercise. Exercise precautions are designed to help people with diabetes avoid problems which can result from unwise exercise choices. Hypoglycaemia can occur if a person who is taking blood sugar lowering medication has:

• Eaten too little carbohydrate (fruit, milk, starch) relative to the exercise.
• Taken too much medication relative to the exercise
• Combined effect of food + medication imbalances relative to the exercise

Are there any types of physical activity a diabetic shouldn’t do?

If you have diabetes complications, some exercises can make your problems worse. For example, activities that increase the pressure in the blood vessels of your eyes, such as lifting heavy weights, can make diabetic eye problems worse. If nerve damage from diabetes has made your feet numb, your doctor may suggest that you try swimming instead of walking for aerobic exercise.

Numbness means that you may not feel any pain from sores or blisters on your feet and so may not notice them. Then they can get worse and lead to more serious problems. Make sure you exercise in cotton socks and comfortable, well-fitting shoes that are designed for the activity you are doing. After you exercise, check your feet for cuts, sores, bumps, or redness. Call your doctor if any foot problems develop.

Check with your doctor: Always talk with your doctor before you start a new physical activity programme. Ask about your medications – prescription and over the counter – and whether you should change the amount you take before you exercise. If you have heart disease, kidney disease, eye problems, or foot problems, ask which types of physical activity are safe for you.

Find an exercise buddy: Many people find that they are more likely to do something active if a friend joins them. If you and a friend plan to walk together, for example, you may be more likely to do it.

Keep track of your physical activity: Write down when you exercise and for how long in your blood glucose record book. You’ll be able to track your progress and to see how physical activity affects your blood glucose.

Decide how you’ll reward yourself: Do something nice for yourself when you reach your activity goals. For example, treat yourself to a movie or buy a new plant for the garden.

What can I do to make sure I stay active?

One of the keys to staying on track is finding some activities you like to do. If you keep finding excuses not to exercise, think about why. Are your goals realistic? Do you need a change in activity? Would another time be more convenient? Keep trying until you find a routine that works for you. Once you make physical activity a habit, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.

Gestational Diabetes as the name suggests is shown by women during the time of their pregnancy.Usually there are no symptoms, if there, the common symptoms include:

• Increased thirst as well as urination
• Loss of weight
• Excessive appetite
• Tiredness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Infections may include those of the Bladder,Vagina and Skin
• Blurred vision

Diagnostic methods of Gestational Diabetes

• An oral glucose tolerance test between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy is the main test for gestational diabetes.