subject: Type 1 Diabetes Diet Plan: How to Complement Insulin Medication [print this page] Type 1 Diabetes Diet Plan: How to Complement Insulin Medication
Although a type 1 diabetes diet plan and exercise cannot control diabetes type 1, it is still useful to take note of the important guidelines so as to avoid complicating the delicate condition. Indeed, diabetes mellitus type 1, which is also known as "juvenile" or "insulin dependent" diabetes, must be treated with the regular injection of insulin. It is a form of diabetes often found in children and young adults who also have heart disease.
Like any other diets, a type 1 diabetes diet plan should be a healthy and well balanced diet, combining the right amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The main goal of the diet is to stabilize the release of glucose into the blood and help normalize blood sugar levels. Dropping or striking blood sugar levels causes complications. Here are some tips that you need to remember:
1. Eat at the same times each day. Starting an eating routine by controlling what time to eat and how much to eat will greatly help in regulating your glucose levels. You also need to eat three meals per day and eat at least 2 snacks. For some, a snack might have to be eaten right before going to sleep.
2. Choose to eat complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates. The body digests complex carbohydrates much slower, which means that carbohydrates are turned to glucose at a slower rate. This helps keep you fuller at a long period and can control your eating routine. You can find complex carbohydrates in whole grain foods such as whole wheat bread, bran cereals, or multi-grain bread.
3. Take more fibrous foods. Fiber will help you in digestion because it adds weight to the stool and helps it pass through the bowel easier. It also helps in making you feel fuller, which can help you control your diet. Eat more fibrous foods such as fresh fruits, whole grain products, pinto beans, and lentils.
To make your type 1 diabetes diet plan truly effective, just keep in mind not to overeat, regularly exercise, and take your medication as faithfully as possible and as prescribed by your doctor. This diet plan complements your insulin medication.
