Nutrients for Diabetic Patients

Please Bookmark:

Body of a Diabetic Patient is either, not in a position to produce glucose, or unable to use and store glucose properly. As a result, glucose backs up in the bloodstream and causes one’s sugar to rise abnormally.

The first rule while discussing nutrients for diabetic patients is that they should avoid stuff containing fine sugar like cakes, pastries, soft drinks, chocolates and so on.  Nutrients that diabetic patients require are found in bulky and fiber-rich unprocessed foods.

They have the ability to slow down absorption of carbohydrates in the body. This helps to delay the emptying of the stomach. Result: Absorption of sugar into the blood happens smoothly. Whole grain cereals also have the same ability.

As recommended by American Diabetes Association, Spinach, asparagus, celery, cabbage,  broccoli and string beans are among the “Food Exchange Group A” category vegetables that can be whole heartedly included in the diabetic diet. They are considered ideal nutrients for diabetic patients. Fish and poultry are preferred over fatty meat, greasy, fried foods.

Nutrients for diabetes patients can be found in high-carbohydrate high plant-fiber (also known as HCF) diet. To cut down on fat intake as much as possible is the key. 5-6 small meals will do well for a diabetic patient rather than those 2-3 big meals in normal course. It keeps blood cholesterol levels.

A balanced diet rich in mineral and vitamins is the most important factors in the control of diabetes and prevention of complications arising in a diabetic patient. One of the most important nutrients is magnesium. The water-soluble property makes magnesium an ideal nutrient for diabetic patient to maintain the integrity of its organ system. Some facts about nutrition that diabetic patients must know are that supplements containing large amount of para-aminobenzoic acid can result in complications. If out of ignorance or otherwise a diabetic patient takes large dosages of vitamins B1 or C, it may inactivate insulin.

Instead, food containing vitamins B1, B2, B12, vitamin C, pantothenic acid, protein and potassium, with small frequent meals containing adequate carbohydrate - can stimulate production of insulin in the body.