Contrary to popular belief, eating too much sugar is not the cause of diabetes. This commonly accepted myth is part of a more complicated issue; many genetic, lifestyle and unknown factors contribute to the disease. If you plan carefully, diabetes doesn’t have to be the end of your sweet tooth. Researchers and doctors say you can enjoy foods with sugar, when consumed like other carbohydrates, in moderation.
It’s about balance
Certain types of carbs make blood glucose levels rise more quickly than others. However, the total amount of carbs you eat makes a bigger difference than type. You want to set a limit for the maximum amount of carbs you eat in a day to control your blood glucose levels. So if you still want to enjoy a sweet treat every now and then, you can, but plan ahead. Sugary foods like candy, pie and cookies have little nutritional value and may also have an unhealthy proportion of fat. They also have a large amount of carbs in a small serving.
You can manage your overall carb intake for the day by substituting a small portion of a sweet treat for another type of carb without drastically affecting your blood glucose levels. For example, if you would like to have a cookie after dinner, eliminate the dinner roll you’d have with your meal so your carb levels remain consistent, while still satisfying your craving. Carefully review the nutrition facts on pre-packaged desserts or in recipes to make sure to maintain an appropriate balance in your diet.
Alternatives
There are plenty of diabetic-friendly cookbooks and online recipes offering great ideas on how to substitute healthier sweeteners in lieu of sugar. Artificial sweeteners still contain carbohydrates, but at a significantly reduced level than table sugar. Fruit is an excellent option when you want something sweet without the empty calories. You also can use fruit in cooking to cut down on the amount of sugar in certain foods.
Finding help
If you have questions about how to incorporate sweets into your meals or how to set nutritional goals, make an appointment with your doctor or dietitian to discuss your options. Making the proper dietary choices will not only help you now, but will also have numerous long-term benefits for your health.
Has it been a while since your last primary care appointment, or do you need a new physician? Call us at 317.565.0565 to request an appointment.
Sources: Diabetes.org
