Why do you need to develop a healthy-eating plan During Diabetes or Pre-diabetes state

If you have diabetes or prediabetes, your doctor will likely recommend that you see a dietitian to help you develop a healthy-eating plan. The plan helps you control your blood sugar (glucose), manage your weight and control heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high blood fats.

When you eat extra calories and fat, your body creates an undesirable rise in blood glucose. If blood glucose isn’t kept in check, it can lead to serious problems, such as a high blood glucose level (hyperglycemia) that, if persistent, may lead to long-term complications, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage.

You can help keep your blood glucose level in a safe range by making healthy food choices and tracking your eating habits.

Make your calories count with these nutritious foods. Choose healthy carbohydrates, fiber-rich foods, fish and “good” fats.

Healthy carbohydrates

• Healthy carbohydrates: Focus on healthy carbohydrates like Fruits,Vegetables Whole grains, Legumes, such as beans and peas Low-fat dairy products..
• Avoid less healthy carbohydrates, such as maida containing foods or drinks with added fats, sugars and sodium.
• Dietary fiber: It is moderates your body digestion and helps control blood sugar levels.
• Eat good amount of fatty acids:  Eat heart-healthy fish at least twice a week.Such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may prevent heart disease.
• Avoid fried fish and fish with high levels of mercury, such as king mackerel.
• Focus on foods containing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.this can help lower your cholesterol levels.
• Note: But don’t over load it, as all fats are high in calories.

Foods to avoid:

Diabetes increases your risk of heart disease and stroke by accelerating the development of clogged and hardened arteries. Foods containing the following can work against your goal of a heart-healthy diet.

• Saturated fats. Avoid high-fat dairy products and animal proteins such as butter, beef, hot dogs, sausage and bacon. Also limit coconut and palm kernel oils.

• Trans fats. Avoid trans fats found in processed snacks, baked goods, shortening and stick margarines.

• Cholesterol. Cholesterol sources include high-fat dairy products and high-fat animal proteins, egg yolks, liver, and other organ meats. Aim for no more than 200 milligrams (mg) of cholesterol a day.

• Sodium. Aim for less than 2,300 mg per day. Your doctor may suggest you aim for even less if you have high blood pressure.