Blood sugar is greatly influenced by your
diet
and the amount of foods that your consume, as well as the types of
foods you consume may affect your blood sugar levels. Food is comprised
of protein, fat and carbohydrates, and each of these components are
necessary elements of a healthy diet, Carbohydrates, however, typically
have the most pronounced effect on blood sugar levels.
Carbohydrates
are found in foods such as potatoes, rice, bread, cereals and pasta.
They are also found in milk, fruit, sweets and yogurt. In addition,
carbohydrates can cause an excessive rise in blood sugar, especially
after meals. People with diabetes need to keep track of their
carbohydrate consumption and should spread out the consumption of
carbohydrates throughout the day.
Protein typically has the least effect on blood
sugar levels. The human body needs proteins in order to function at an
optimal level, and proteins are found in meat and fish, dairy products,
nuts and beans. Foods containing fat generally cause a decrease in blood
sugar right after meals, however, they can cause a rise in blood sugar
levels slightly higher longer after consuming a meal. Limiting high-fat
food can help reduce the risk of heart disease, which is a major risk
factor for people who have diabetes.
Foods high in sugar also raise blood sugar levels. Although sugary foods tend to temporarily raise levels of circulating
blood sugar levels,
they are not the cause of diabetes. A diet rich in lean protein, whole
grains, fruits and vegetables can help the body keep blood glucose
levels stable and help your body metabolize glucose. Certain foods cause
an abrupt spike in glucose levels such as sugars and fruits, where
other foods provide slow and steady elevations and reductions in blood
sugar levels, such as complex carbohydrates. People with diabetes should
discuss their blood sugar levels with their physicians who can
recommend a healthy
diet and exercise plan to keep blood sugars at healthy levels.
