Common Myths about Diabetic Diet Debunked!

When one hears the phrase ‘diabetic diet,’ one would think of a complicated and strict diet which absolutely restricts sugar intake, sweets, and most favorite foods. But just what exactly are myths and what are facts?

Too much sugar intake causes diabetes. Some people believe that eating too much sugar can cause diabetes. The truth is that diabetes occurs when something disrupts your body’s natural ability to convert the food you eat into energy.

A diabetic diet is complicated. Sure, you will have to plan your meals and choose what you eat carefully. However, the main goal is to eat the right type of foods that will work well with your activities and medications in order to maintain a normal blood sugar level. It’s as simple as that.

Carbohydrates are bad. Proteins are good. A diabetic diet usually limits carbohydrates intake, but this doesn’t mean it’s totally bad. Carbohydrates are part of what makes up a balanced diet, so it is also beneficial for diabetics when consumed in moderation. They contain many vitamins and minerals that can benefit the body. The trick is to choose quality carbohydrates.

Another myth is that protein is better than carbohydrates. The problem with eating too many proteins though, is that it may be filled with saturated fat and could raise your risk of heart disease. A balanced diet of the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins and fats is recommended.

Eat all you want. Adjust medicine doses later. If you’re using insulin to treat diabetes, you might learn how to adjust the doses of insulin according to the amount of food you consume. But this doesn’t mean that you can let go of your diet and eat whatever you want, then use the drugs later on to stabilize your glucose level.

Say goodbye to sweets. No, you don’t have to say goodbye to sweets and your favorite desserts. You can have your cake and eat it too by using artificial sweeteners, or using nutritious ingredients like fresh fruit, whole grains, and vegetable oil. You may also cut back on your regular servings, and even use the dessert as a reward to motivate you in sticking to your diabetic diet plan.