Discovering the American Diabetic Diet
Many diabetics suffer from a weak immune system and when weakened, it prevents the body from healing quicker and recovering from viruses such as colds. Also, it can lead to infections in the body. According tot he American Diabetes Association, diabetes is the fifth most deadly disease in America and it affects nearly 21 million Americans. And unfortunately many people are undiagnosed and go untreated until they have serious health problems. Fortunately, with a proper diet, many diabetics can improve their immune system.
As dire as diabetes seems to be, the truth is that millions of people suffer from diabetes and many have lived productive lifestyles as well as a long life by following a proper diabetic diet plan to control their blood sugar and also practicing moderation of their consuming of food.
The American Diabetic Association recommends diabetics observe an American diabetic diet utilizing the Diabetes Food Pyramid which is very different from the USDA Food Guide Pyramid.
The Diabetes Diet Food Pyramid is different when compared to the USDA Food Guide Pyramid because it groups foods based on the carbohydrate and protein content, while the latter classifies their sections by foods. Examples would be finding potatoes in the grain section than the vegetable section. Cheese in the meat group and not have its own milk group. These are among the differences between the two pyramids.
Grains and Starches
The American Diet Plan includes 6-11 servings daily of beans, grains and starches. An example of foods with starches are breads, cereals, rice and pasta. What you want to have are not white bread, white rice or pasta but food that incorporates whole wheat grains. So, wheat, rye and oats are very good for the body as well as starchy vegetables such as peas, corn, potatoes and beans.
Vegetables and Fruits
The American Diet Plan includes 3-5 servings daily of vegetables and 2-4 servings daily of fruit. Vegetables that are full of fiber, vitamins and minerals such as spinach, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, cauliflower and several others. Again, starchy vegetables such as corn, potatoes, peas and beans are good for you as well.
Dairy Products
The American Diet Plan includes 2-3 servings daily of dairy. Calcium is good for your bones and instead of going with milk that is full of fat, there are nonfat to low-fat dairy products available. From milk, cheese, yogurt and even butter and the good news is that these low-fat to no-fat alternatives are quite tasty as well.
Meats, Poultry and Fish
The American Diet Plan includes 4-6 ounces per day of meat, meat substitutes and proteins. Meat, fish, chicken or turkey are important in the diabetic diet plan because they contain vitamins, minerals and protein. And the good news is that you can look for lean meats that do not contain fat and also if you do want to eat any of these, keep portions small and practice moderation.
At the low end of the Diabetic Pyramid are oils, fats, sweets and alcohol. Although these can be consumed, it is advisable for diabetics to consume these in small quantities.
Contact your physician to discuss the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Food Pyramid.
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