The Diabetes Diet for the Holidays

Diabetes diet superfoodsWith the ever-increasing prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in our society, it is important to understand the disease and create healthier food options.  Of course, as a diabetic, it is well known that you should not consume sweets along with other carbohydrates.  However, there are many food items out there which are beneficial while others which are not recommended for diabetics.

Certain foods to avoid include refined sugar (desserts), white flour (white bread and pasta), starches such as white potatoes, parsnips, white rice and so on.  It is also important to realize that there are healthier alternatives such as sweet potatoes, brown rice and wheat flour (wheat pasta, wheat or multigrain bread).  For individuals who are not fans of brown or wild rice, then the healthiest white rice would be Basmati rice, which can be paired really well with Thai, Indian, or Asian stews, curries, and stir fry, all of which can be very healthy and acceptable for diabetics.

For individuals who crave sugar but cannot eat desserts, then fruit is always an option.  Certain fruits which are recommended for diabetics include berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries), kiwi, apples, and pomegranates.  It is important to avoid fruits which is high in sugar such as pineapple, banana, watermelon, to name a few.

At the end of the day, eating in moderation is the key to living a healthy lifestyle whether you are diabetic or not.  It is also very wise to understand the do’s and don’t’s of diabetes and its associated cuisine.  If you are feeling left out this holiday season due to not being able to eat the festive foods, don’t be, because most of the food items prepared this season, including the meats, sweet mashed potatoes, vegetables, salads, and fruit can be consumed without much hesitation.  So, we hope that all of you have a very festive, filling, healthy, and peaceful Christmas and holiday season.