A diet plan is a breakdown of meals the diabetic patients have into its component groups – carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also includes the calorie count of the foods and allow patients to plan meals with a balanced combination of starches, fruits, fibers, meats and meat substitutes, vegetables and fats, - all measured in grams.
Patients create their diet plans using diabetic diet sheets, to keep track of their food intake and to make sure that their meals are regular. Usually they consult dietitians, who help them design their diet plans and advise them on what foods to include, and in what proportions. Regular meals in particular are very important for diabetic patients, to keep their blood glucose level constant.
Diet plans also help patients lose weight. If the patient wants to lose weight, he or she can use the diet plan to only eat meals with reduced calories and fats and refrain themselves from overeating.
Diet plans have exchange lists which divides food into categories based on their nutrient value. Patients can therefore choose to exchange foods in the same category because they have similar nutrient content. Patients can even include some of their favorite foods, as long as they are getting the carbohydrates, proteins and fats that they need. After all, healthy food doesn’t have to be bland and tasteless all the time. |