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Happy Tummy Expert

2 years ago

Dear Arundhati, Thank you for the question

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that prevents the body to utilize glucose completely or partially. It is characterized by raised glucose concentration in blood and alterations in carbohydrates, protein & fat metabolism. Various factors like genetics, sedentary lifestyle, acute stress etc., can cause diabetes.
Management of any type of diabetes requires diagnosis and further assistance from specific health care professionals. Kindly contact your health care professional for further guidance.
Here are a few tips to help manage Diabetes
• It is recommended to have low GI (Glycaemic index) foods. Simple sugars should be restricted since they are easily absorbed and have high glycaemic index. Some of the Low GI foods include green leafy vegetables, green beans, apples, orange, pear, wheat, millets, pulses, lentils etc.
• High protein intake helps to increase insulin production & promote satiety. Pulses, lentils, eggs, lean meat, paneer etc., are a good source of protein.
• Combination of oils is preferable. Include monounsaturated (MUFA) & Polyunsaturated (PUFA) containing oils like sunflower oil, ground nut oil, Gingelly oils etc.
• Increase intake of whole grains and legumes and limiting the intake of saturated fats helps in improving insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of diabetes independent of weight loss.
• Include fiber from foods such as whole grains, millets, multigrains, seeds, nuts like almonds, walnuts, groundnut, vegetables and fruits like apples, oranges, papaya etc.
• Limit intake of fruits such as pineapple, mango, dates, pears etc, as they have high GI
• Avoid fasting for longer teams, regular meal timings should be practiced.


Here are few guidelines that can be considered
Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
- Try to incorporate the My plate Concept by dividing your plate into 4 quadrants, fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, the other two quadrants with cereals and protein. A small quantity of dairy intake is recommendable.
-Begin your day with a well-balanced breakfast as it is an important meal of the day.
-Avoid skipping meals. Also, try to avoid fasting and feasting too often.
-It is good to consume six small frequent meals at every 2-3hour interval instead of three large & heavy meals.
- Try to consume more of Whole grains and Multigrain foods as they are a good source of fiber.
-Consume a minimum of 5 serving of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins as well as they give you a feeling of satiety.
-Limit intake of deep-fried foods. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
-Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before sleep time.
-Drink adequate amount of water (minimum 8 glasses) of water daily to keep yourself well hydrated
-Engage in at least 30-45 minutes brisk walk/physical activity of moderate intensity at least 5 days a week.
-Try and follow a good sleep regimen that in terms of both quantity and Quality.

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.
Hope we have answered your query.
Wishing you a great day ahead

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