Nutritional help for diabetics

T THERE is no one-sizefits-all approach when it comes to making food choices.

However, it is important t that people with diabetes, a and those at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, are supported to choose the right foods for them to improve their h health and quality of life.

That’s why Diabetes UK has issued new nutrition guidelines for healthcare p professionals.

Eating certain foods s such as vegetables, fruits, w wholegrains, fish, nuts and pulses can help manage blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as well as reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

These foods are usually associated with the Mediterranean-style diet, but can easily be adapted to suit different cultural and personal preferences.

The guidelines also recommend eating less red and processed meat, refined carbohydrates such as white bread and rice, and drinking fewer sugar-sweetened drinks.

For the first time, the guidelines also show how people with Type 2 diabetes might be able to achieve remission.

Being active daily and achieving at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week can also help people living with diabetes lead healthy lives, and prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes for those at risk.

It’s important to enjoy the food you eat, and if you are able to cook from scratch, you are in control of what goes into your meal.

We hope that the new guidelines will help people enjoy food, while making healthy choices and being more active.

The new nutrition guidelines are available at www.diabetes.org.uk/ nutrition-guidelines.

Dai Williams National Director – Diabetes UK Cymru