Diabetes and diet-Your diet should contain a variety of food |12 December 2008

For example diabetics need to ensure that they eat regular meals, ensure that their meals have adequate carbohydrates, little fat and plenty of fibre. Most diabetics in Seychelles are also overweight and hence, limiting fatty and sugary foods is helpful.

Starchy food should be consumed in moderation

Foods containing starch (rice, potatoes, bread, cereals, roots and tubers) should be consumed in moderation as these may increase blood sugar levels considerably if eaten in excess. As much as possible refined starchy foods should be substituted with high fibre alternatives such as oats, brown bread, and our local tubers (gro manze). These cause less of an increase in blood sugar levels than their refined counterparts. The addition of high fibre foods such as vegetables and pulses is also of benefit as not only does it help control blood sugar, but it also contains a lot of vital antioxidants that can help prevent diabetic complications. Fish, meat or alternatives such as pulses or eggs need to be included in moderation at each meal, although cooking methods that do not use up a lot of fat is to be encouraged.

Sugar and sugary foods are unsuitable for achieving good blood sugar controls as they are absorbed rapidly in the blood. A small amount can be included in the daily diet (less than thirty gram) if combined with foods which is high in fibre.
 
In order to achieve good blood sugar controls, it is vital that people with diabetes
• Eat regular meals

• Avoid missing meals

• Eat at consistent times everyday

• Eat consistent amount of foods everyday

• Replace refined carbohydrate foods with complex/ high fibre carbohydrate.

• Eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables everyday

• Practice sensible drinking

• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach

• Avoid sweet alcoholic drinks