1 year ago
Is it safe to consume high fiber food for people with diabetics?
1 year ago
Dear Amal, Thank you for the question
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that prevents the body to utilize glucose completely or partially. It is characterised 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.
It is safe for people diagnosed with diabetes to consume high fiber foods along with a diversified balanced diet. The recommended daily amount of fiber for adult men and women is 30g and 25g respectively.
Care should be taken to restrict foods that are high in GI (Glycaemic index)
Here are a few tips to help manage Diabetes
• It is recommended to have low GI 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.
• 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.
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