Are all sugar-free foods fine
to eat if I have diabetes?
No. The sugar content of a food
is just one aspect and is not the
only thing, or even the most
important thing, for people
with diabetes to consider. In
fact, the amount of saturated
and trans fats, the fibre
content, the total amount
of carbs and the glycaemic
index of a food are a better
guide of whether a food is a
good choice. Unfortunately,
there are many sugar-free
foods promoted to people with
diabetes that are actually higher
in saturated fat than the regular
varieties and are not good
choices. Many of them also
contain little nutritional value.I’VE HEARD ABOUT
THE BENEFITS OF A
MEDITERRANEAN DIET- IS THIS THE WAY TO GO?
There’s now a significant amount
of research showing the health
benefits of a Mediterranean diet.
Studies have shown this type of
eating plan can reduce the risk of
heart disease, cancer, type 2 and
neurodegenerative diseases such as
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
So I need more fruit and
vegetables. Are fresh juices
and smoothies a good option?
That’s a great question as juices and smoothies aren’t always the
healthy choice they might seem, particularly if you’re watching your
weight and blood glucose levels. Juices, in particular, usually remove
the fibre, which makes them easy to overconsume, and if they’re
mostly fruit, can be high in energy and carbohydrate. It’s much
better to eat the whole fruit! However, smoothies can be a way to
get more fruit and veg into your diet. Choosing those which just
blend up the fruit and veg, and sticking with one serve of fruit
mixed with a variety of different vegetables, is your best option.96 MARCH/APRIL 2019 diabetic living