How to eat to help manage your diabetes getting started

Transcription

1 How to eat to help manage your diabetes getting started UHN Information for patients and their caregivers Read this information to learn: what carbohydrates are and why they are important tips to help you manage your blood sugar levels who to talk to for more information Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: University Health Network. All rights reserved. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for non-commercial personal use only. Author: Kathy Camelon Created: 08/2016 Form: D-8645

2 What are carbohydrates? When you eat food, it breaks down into carbohydrates, protein and fat. Much of the energy that your body needs comes from the sugar (glucose) in carbohydrates. When you eat carbohydrates, they break down into sugar in your body and raise your blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a health problem that develops when your body does not use and store this sugar properly. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for your body and brain, so they should always be included as a part of balanced meals. Foods that have carbohydrates are: 99Grains and starches like bread, crackers, pasta, cereal, rice, and oatmeal 99Beans, lentils and starchy vegetables like corn and potatoes 99Fruits and fruit juices 99Milk, yogurt, and ice cream 99Sugars, sweets, sweetened drinks, cookies, desserts and snack foods like chips and popcorn It s important to choose the type and amount of carbohydrate that is right for you. This will help you manage your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. 2

3 Use these tips to help you manage your blood sugar levels: Plan your day so you eat a meal or snack every 4 to 6 hours. Limit sugary or sweet foods and drinks such as regular pop, fruit juice, desserts, jam, candies and honey. Choose high fibre foods such as whole grain breads and cereals, lentils, dried beans and peas, brown rice, and vegetables and fruits. Use the picture below to guide the amount of carbohydrate containing foods, meat or other proteins (like fish, chicken or beans) and vegetables you eat during meals. Fruit Milk and alternatives Grains and starches Vegetables, at least 2 kinds Meat and alternatives 3

4 If your appetite is poor or you are trying to gain weight: Several small meals and snacks throughout the day may be easier to manage than 3 large meals. You may include small amounts of sugars or sweets as part of a meal or snack. Add healthy fats to your foods. For example, add vegetable oils, avocado, soft margarine, mayonnaise, and nuts and nut butters. Choose high calorie drinks such as - Milk (2% or whole milk) - Soy milk - Glucerna, Boost Diabetic, Ensure or Boost (Plus Calories or other type) or other favourite brand of meal replacement drink If you are trying to keep your weight steady or lose weight: Choose healthy snacks only if needed to manage your blood sugar and/or appetite. If you are thirsty, drink water. Choose foods with little or no added fat or sugar. For example, avoid fried foods, chips and pastries. Control your portion sizes as shown in the picture of the meal. If you are hungry, eating more vegetables is a great way to help you feel full. 4

5 What about alcohol? Drinking alcohol can cause low blood sugar. Eat carbohydrates when drinking alcohol, and check your blood sugar before going to bed. Talk to a member of your health care team about how drinking alcohol can affect your blood sugar. Who can I talk to for more information about eating healthy with diabetes? Ask a member of your health care team to refer you to a Registered Dietitian. A Registered Dietitian can give you more tips to manage your blood sugar. You can also visit these websites to find more information: Canadian Diabetes Association EatRight Ontario or call