Meet Dale Cooke: Providing Support for Those Living with Diabetes
To effectively manage diabetes, it is important to focus on healthy eating while allowing for occasional indulgences. Dale Cooke, a dedicated diabetes coach, offers personalized support and guidance to individuals living with diabetes. He helps them create meal plans that are balanced and nutritious, while also finding ways to enjoy their favorite foods in moderation.
Illustration of Low GI Diet Foods
While the Low GI Diet promotes balance, the extent of its weight loss benefits is up for debate. It is important for individuals to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist before making significant changes to their diet to ensure it is appropriate for their specific health needs and goals.
Positive Food Relationships for Diabetics
Ms. Cooke stresses the significance of having a positive relationship with food for mental well-being, especially for individuals dealing with diabetes.
The Impact of Weight Stigma on Health
The presence of weight stigma can result in long-term health issues, emphasizing the necessity for broader societal changes.
Tips for Developing a Positive Food Relationship:
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods that nourish your body and mind.
- Practice mindful eating to fully enjoy and appreciate your meals.
- Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to maintain a healthy balance.
By fostering a positive relationship with food, individuals with diabetes can better control their blood sugar levels and improve overall well-being.
Understanding Food Cravings and Non-Hungry Eating
To combat food cravings, it is crucial to assess true hunger and make mindful food choices.
Yvonne’s Journey with Type 2 Diabetes
After ten years of managing diabetes, Yvonne shares her experiences with handling cravings and making food choices.
Tips for Managing Cravings:
- Opt for low-GI fruits as a healthier sweet alternative.
- Choose non-sugar sweetened beverages for occasional indulgences.
Swap Suggestions for Cravings:
- Adjust pizza toppings and chip selections to satisfy cravings.
- Concentrate on savory foods like lean meats, cheese, and legumes.
Healthy Snack Options for Diabetics:
- Enjoy whole fruits, unsweetened yogurt, and nuts/seeds as wholesome snacks.
- Pair wholegrain bread with nutrient-dense fillings for a gratifying treat.
For personalized advice based on your health history, consult with a healthcare professional.
Subscribe for Health Tips and Recipes
Receive weekly wellness tips and top recipes directly to your inbox for a health boost.
Diabetes impacts sugar metabolism, necessitating a balanced diet to manage symptoms and sugar cravings effectively.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels with Proper Nutrition
Maintain stable blood sugar levels by adhering to a balanced diet that supports optimal insulin function and energy production.
Tips for Satisfying Sweet Cravings with Diabetes
Learn techniques to manage sugar cravings while keeping blood sugar levels in check.
- Enjoy fresh fruit: Apples, pears, and papaya are natural sources of sweetness with complex carbs and soluble fiber.
- Monitor carb intake: Keep your carbohydrate consumption between 45-60 grams per meal, even when enjoying treats.
- Use sugar alternatives: Opt for low-calorie sweeteners like aspartame or natural sweeteners like stevia.
- Indulge in dark chocolate: Choose dark chocolate rich in flavonoids to help regulate insulin response.
- Choose sugar-free snacks: Opt for sugar-free versions of your favorite snacks to satisfy cravings.
- Consider health bars: Look for natural ingredient health bars without added sugars.
- Opt for sugar-free mints: Sugar-free mints can help curb sweet cravings.
- Incorporate chia seeds: Chia seeds offer omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber to reduce sugar cravings.
- Boost fiber and protein: Legumes provide plant-based fiber and protein to minimize sugar cravings.
- Train your taste buds: Gradually reduce sugar intake to adjust taste preferences over time.
- Maintain energy levels: Consistent meals and snacks can prevent low blood sugar and intense hunger.
- Practice mindful eating: Develop a healthy relationship with food by avoiding distractions during meals.
SLIDESHOW
Image Source: iStock Images
For more information on managing sugar cravings, visit The British Diabetic Association.
Reference: Yu JH, Shin MS, Kim DJ, et al. Enhanced carbohydrate craving in patients with poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabet Med. 2013 Sep;30(9):1080-6. PubMed
Top What People With Diabetes Eat When Craving Sweets Related Articles
Take a WebMD quiz to discover safe and effective diets to manage blood sugar levels, weight, and overall well-being.
Diabetes, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, includes type 1 (insulin-dependent) and type 2 (non-insulin-dependent). The sugar content in fruits varies, with some high-sugar options like mangoes and low-sugar choices like avocados.
WHO states that natural sugar in high-fiber fruits and veggies does not contribute to daily intake. Various types of insulin are used to treat different forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes, and insulin resistance.
Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to increased hunger and cravings. Why does excess glucose trigger cravings, and how can you address this issue?
Why do you crave food when your blood glucose is high?
Inadequate insulin levels result in hyperglycemia, causing cravings. Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly can help manage cravings effectively.
Consult with your healthcare provider to adjust your diabetes management plan for better blood glucose control, which may involve lifestyle changes or medication modifications.
Other tips to help reduce and prevent high blood glucose levels:
- Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to help lower blood sugar levels.
- Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly to track changes and make necessary adjustments to your diet and medication.
- Avoid sugary drinks and excessive consumption of high-carb foods like white bread, pasta, and rice.
- Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, as stress can affect blood glucose levels.
- Get an adequate amount of sleep as insufficient sleep can lead to insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels.
By implementing these strategies and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can effectively manage high blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.