Nutrition in diabetes - health24hours.com

Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by impaired carbohydrate metabolism, which leads to elevated blood glucose levels. Appropriate nutrition plays a key role in the treatment of diabetes. In the article below, we will discuss the division of diabetes, symptoms indicating the possibility of its development, dietary management, rules for establishing a diet, dietary recommendations for patients with type I and II diabetes, as well as many practical tips on living with this disease.

Division

Diabetes is divided into several types, the most important of which are type I and II diabetes. Type I diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin, while type II diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production.

Symptoms indicating the possibility of developing diabetes:

Although the symptoms of diabetes may vary depending on the type of disease, there are some common symptoms such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, feeling tired, weight loss, dry skin and itching. It’s worth consulting your doctor if you experience these symptoms.

Dietary management

Diet is a key element in both treating and preventing diabetes. Here are some important rules to follow:

Rules for determining the diet:

The diet should be adapted to the type of diabetes, age, physical activity and other individual factors. It is worth consulting a dietitian to determine an appropriate diet.

Dietary recommendations for patients with type I diabetes:

Patients with type I diabetes must administer insulin regularly. The diet should be balanced and include the amount of carbohydrates to properly adjust the insulin dose.

Nutritional treatment in type II diabetes:

People with type II diabetes often need to control their blood sugar levels through diet and physical activity. It is important to limit the consumption of simple carbohydrates, sugars and saturated fats.

Energy demand:

Caloric needs depend on age, gender, body weight and level of physical activity. It is worth taking care of the right amount of calories to avoid excess weight or energy deficiency.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates have the greatest impact on blood glucose levels. In a diabetic’s diet, it is important to control the amount of carbohydrates consumed and choose those with a low glycemic index.

Glycemic index

The glycemic index determines how quickly a product affects blood glucose levels. Products with a low glycemic index are recommended to avoid sudden sugar spikes.

Proteins

Proteins are important for building and repairing tissues. They should be present in appropriate amounts in a diabetic’s diet, but their consumption should not be overdone.

Fats

Fats are also an important component of the diet, but you should choose unsaturated fats, such as vegetable oils and fish. Saturated and trans fats should be limited.

Vitamins and minerals

A diabetic should provide the body with the appropriate amount of vitamins and minerals, especially magnesium, potassium and vitamin D.

Alcohol

Alcohol can affect blood glucose levels, so it should be consumed moderately and always with food.

Sweets

Desserts and sweets can be eaten by diabetics, but in moderate amounts and taking into account the overall nutritional plan.

Physical effort

Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels. Regular exercise is an important element of both the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

A few practical notes

A diabetic should regularly monitor blood glucose levels, avoid eating in a hurry, plan meals and control portions. It is also worth using applications to track your diet and physical activity.

Vegetarian diet – should you supplement?

A vegetarian diet is a way of eating that excludes the consumption of meat, including fish and poultry. More and more people are choosing this form of diet due to its health and ecological benefits. However, does a vegetarian diet provide all the necessary nutrients? Is supplementation necessary? In this article we will analyze these issues.

What is a vegetarian diet?

A vegetarian diet is a way of eating that is based on the consumption of products of plant origin, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and cereal products. There is no place for meat in a vegetarian diet, including fish and poultry. However, there are different variations of this diet, depending on what animal products you can tolerate.

Is it necessary to supplement a vegetarian diet?

A vegetarian diet can provide many valuable nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, for this diet to be healthy and balanced, it is important to plan properly and include the necessary nutrients. In some cases, supplementation may be necessary to avoid deficiencies.

The most common deficiencies associated with a vegetarian diet

A vegetarian diet may be lower in some nutrients, which may lead to deficiencies. Here are some of the most common deficiencies and how you can prevent them:

Iron

Plant-based iron (non-heme iron) is less absorbable than heme iron, which is found in meat. People following a vegetarian diet should ensure they get enough iron by eating foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. However, it is also worth considering iron supplementation, especially if you experience symptoms of deficiency, such as feeling tired.

Iron supplementation

Iron supplementation should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, because excess iron may be harmful to the body.

Vitamin b12

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is mainly found in animal products. People on a vegetarian diet may have difficulty getting the right amount of vitamin B12, so it is worth considering supplementation.

Vitamin b12 supplementation

Vitamin B12 supplementation may be necessary for people on a vegetarian diet. The recommended dose of vitamin B12 depends on age and individual needs, so it is worth consulting a doctor to determine the appropriate dose.

Protein

In a vegetarian diet, protein sources come from plants, such as legumes, nuts, seeds and grains. It is worth ensuring a variety of protein sources to provide the appropriate amount of amino acids necessary for the body.

Alternative protein sources:

– Tofu – Tempeh – Seitan – Soy products – Plant milk – Eggs (if tolerated in the diet)

Calcium

Calcium is an important mineral for bone and tooth health. People on a vegetarian diet can get calcium from products such as plant milk, tofu, sesame seeds or almonds. However, calcium supplementation may be necessary, especially in people with increased needs.

Calcium supplementation

Calcium supplementation should be tailored to individual needs and doctor’s recommendations.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health and the immune system. Its natural source is sunlight, but people living in areas with insufficient sun exposure may need vitamin D supplementation.

Vitamin D supplementation

Vitamin D supplementation may be recommended by your doctor, especially in winter when sun exposure is limited.

Vitamin a and β-carotene

Vitamin A is important for the health of the eyes, skin and immune system. Sources of vitamin A are mainly products of animal origin, but it can also be obtained from plant sources of β-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. People on a vegetarian diet should ensure that they provide adequate amounts of β-carotene.

Vitamin A supplementation

Vitamin A supplementation is rarely necessary if the vegetarian diet is balanced and rich in sources of β-carotene.

Your suggestions

If you are wondering whether a vegetarian diet is right for you, it is worth consulting a dietitian or doctor. A specialist can help you plan a balanced diet and determine whether supplementation is necessary.