'How should diabetics eat?' question answered

Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Hasan Levent discussed the importance of proper nutrition for diabetics, stating that the right food should be consumed at the right time and in the right amount.

Eskişehir Fizyomer Terapia Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Medical Center Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Hasan Levent explained how diabetics should eat.

Stating that diabetes is a disease that occurs when blood sugar is too high, Dr. Levent said, “When diabetes is not treated well, it can cause chronic damage to vital organs such as the heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys, as well as diseases such as hearing impairment, depression, and Alzheimer's. It can also lead to life-threatening emergencies such as acute diabetic coma or hypoglycemia,” he said.

'YOU WILL EXPERIENCE SERIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS'

Emphasizing that making healthy and balanced food choices will help keep blood sugar at a healthy level, Dr. Hasan Levent said, “If your blood sugar is not kept within a safe range, you will experience serious health problems, primarily vascular occlusion and nerve damage, as well as hypoglycemia and coma.”

Pointing out that the right foods must be eaten at the right time and in the right amounts for sugar control, Dr. Levent stated, “Eating the right foods means consuming a variety of healthy foods from all food groups. Meal times should be planned as 3 to 6 meals a day. A diabetic diet is a healthy nutrition plan that is rich in antioxidants and low in fat and calories; the main components are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.”

WHICH PRODUCTS SHOULD BE CONSUMED?

Dr. Levent explained what should be included in the diet of diabetics as follows:

“Healthy carbohydrates turn into blood sugar after digestion without raising your blood sugar too much, and they provide energy. Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, whole grains (whole wheat, barley, oats, rye, brown rice), and legumes (chickpeas, lentils, beans, kidney beans) also help with weight control by providing a feeling of satiety.

Vegetables, seasonal greens, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and proteins also play an important role in the regular functioning of the metabolism. Animal proteins rich in Omega-3, especially fish at least two days a week, as well as low-fat red meat, chicken, turkey, eggs, and low-fat milk and dairy products, in addition to plant-based proteins such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and peanuts should be consumed.

Healthy fats help you lower your blood fat levels and thus protect your cardiovascular health. Add foods such as avocado, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, olives, and olive oil to your diet, but do not overdo it.”