Although sugary sweets seem like the main issue, managing diabetes, and health related issues actually require monitoring any carbohydrates in one’s diet. During the picnics and holidays of summer time, balancing one’s meals can be especially difficult. Yet, diabetics can still savor an occasional serving of their favorite dessert so long as it’s in balance with other carbs in their diet.
Diabetes is a group of diseases where the body produces too little insulin to regulate blood glucose, causing it to build up in the bloodstream and cause health problems. Although treatments include insulin, diet, and exercise, diabetics have to be especially careful of carbohydrates like sugar, fiber, and complex carbs that raise blood sugar. Risky ingredients include sugar, honey, agave, and starches in potatoes and white bread, while better ingredients range from whole grains to alternative sweeteners and vegetables with less starch. So, rather than just eliminating sweets from their diet, diabetics have to maintain a balanced diet.
Alternatives to Sugar
When baking and cooking, the main substitutes for sugar include a few different basic categories. Recipes generally require some revision, though you can substitute about half of the sugar without any changes. No matter what, keep portions small to help manage nutrition and blood sugar.
Tips for Diabetic Cuisine
Whether you are someone with diabetes, with dietary restrictions, or just a family member or friend of someone with a limited diet, there are some common ways around sugar. At base, respect their restrictions; offer alternatives, and avoid tempting them with sweets.
Other tips for supporting your loved ones include:
The main thing for diabetics themselves is to maintain a healthy balance: