Tech Nutrition Expert Packages Diabetes: The Silent Disease by Diana Nakhle Clinical Dietitian, Carlton Nutrition Center Throughout my almost 5 years as a clinical dietitian in Bahrain, at least 1 or 2 of the patients I consult daily are diagnosed with diabetes or abnormal blood glucose levels. Around 15% of Bahrain’s population suffer from diabetes. What is more surprising is that a large number of diabetic patients do not know they have the disease. There are 3 main types of diabetes: type 1 which appears during childhood, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes when pregnant). Causes of diabetes might differ, but no matter what type you have, it means you have too much glucose in your blood. If left uncontrolled, long term complications might develop gradually affecting your kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes… Type 2 diabetes was once a condition that occurred in adults. Sadly over the past years, we are seeing it in teens and children mainly caused by their weight gain, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy eating habits. Since <strong>November</strong> is National Diabetes Awareness Month, I would like to clarify some diabetes myths that people believe in and must be aware of. Diabetic people should follow a strict low carbohydrate diet. Truth is, by strictly excluding a food group you may be giving up on essential nutrients. The key is to control your portion size, choose whole grains over processed carbohydrates. Every meal you consume should be well balanced in whole grains, lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. Diabetic people cannot eat sweets or chocolate. You can indulgence in a small piece of sweet or chocolate knowing that most of the days you are following a healthy meal plan and satisfying your sweet tooth with a piece of fruit. Just don’t make it a daily habit. Sugar-free foods and diet snacks are safe to eat. This doesn’t give you the green light to go crazy over them. They often contain plenty of calories, carbohydrates and fats. You should always check the nutrition label and switch to more natural based food. Fruits are healthy, no harm to overeat. Fruits are a rich source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, but they contain carbohydrates. Having diabetes means you have to count your carbohydrates. Colorful fruits in all varieties should have a healthy place in your diet, however eat them in moderation. If you are overweight, every kilogram you lose can improve your health and diabetes. Losing just 7% of your body weight makes a significant difference in your blood sugar level. Start your engine by making the right choices. Follow a healthy diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, legumes, fruits and vegetables with limited amounts of processed food, saturated and trans fats. It is not easy to be diagnosed with diabetes, but learning about your disease and being aware is the first step you take to enjoy a happy healthy life. There is no definite cure for diabetes. Living with it can be challenging but with the support of your doctor and dietitian, you can overcome this challenge! Diana Nakhle Clinical Dietitian Carlton Nutrition Center 76 <strong>November</strong> <strong>2016</strong>
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