RUMOR HAS IT CARBS ARE BAD FOR DIABETES?

I love carbs. I’m also pre-diabetic due to a genetic insulin disorder. November 14th is National Diabetes Day, and I’m chatting about the rumor around carbs and diabetes!

 Avoiding carbohydrates is a myth that is frequently rumored. However, when carbs are added to a diet as a start foundation (and not abused), they can contribute to the average healthy diet. Cards do affect blood sugar levels and should be monitored. Do not choose starchy, sugary carbs, but rather the whole grains, fruits, and veggies that have vitamins, minerals, and fibers within. Let’s choose sweet potato chips over potato chips, that’s all I’m saying!

Let’s be frank; diabetes is a tricky disease to manage. Individuals with the disease should focus on eating lean protein, foods high in fiber, and fewer carbs than around commonly found in even the healthiest of foods. Many individuals have been successful with a plant-based diet, but that’s not for everyone. To make it easy, we’re making a grocery list you’ll want to check out: 

Top Protein Choices:

• Beans
• Nuts
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Oily fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna, etc.)

Top fruits and veggie choices:

• Berries
• Sweet potatoes
• Collard greens
• Kale
• Okra
• Asparagus
• Broccoli 

Top dairy choices:

• Low-or nonfat greek yogurt
• Low-or nonfat milk

Top grain choices:

• Brown rice
• Whole-wheat pasta

Foods that spike sugar should be avoided or limited at all costs. These foods include: 

• Full-fat dairy
• Refined flour containing foods
• Sweeteners 
• Applesauce or jam
• White rice or white portions of pasta
• Anything with a high-glycemic load

Embrace this list next time you are walking down the grocery store. The best way to keep that blood glucose level under control is by managing it by your practitioner’s orders. You’ll want to follow a healthy diet and get moving to help control your disease. 

Read more here: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases plan on 

Diabetes Diet, Eating & Physical Activity.

Healthline offers more advice on strategic diets to choose from if you are interested in a diabetic diet. This list may seem overwhelming like there are too many rules, but you want to plan your meals if you have diabetes. There’s general idea is to keep your blood sugar close to normal. Choose food and activities that work alongside this plan.