People with diabetes should carry out a practically daily control of the diet to keep a measurement of the blood glucose levels . That is, to establish a control of the possible rises and falls of the values of blood glucose . Physical exercise is another of the main factors that affect episodes of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia .
There are two main factors to take into account with respect to food. One of them is the glycemic index value and another is the amount of carbohydrates it contains. Specifically, the glycemic load is the differential value. That is, the element that offers the best vision of how a food affects blood glucose .
Foods that increase blood glucose the most
Although it may seem strange, people with diabetes are not prohibited from eating any type of food. However, there are a series of foods that, due to their characteristics, should be limited in any diet or consume as little as possible.
Mashed potatoesThus, we find a great variety of everyday foods that can contribute to increasing blood glucose levels at high speed, especially harmful for people with diabetes. Among them, the following stand out:
- Bread
- Sugar
- Honey
- Noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Sugary cereals
- Ice creams
- Refined wheat flour
- Corn starch, cassava
- Noodles
- Jams
- Bakery and pastry products
- Caramel sauce
- Sweet potato
- Sweet cookies
All these foods should be limited as much as possible in the daily life of people with diabetes. Fortunately, there are now many substitute foods with similar flavors.
Nutrients that lower blood glucose
On the other hand, we also find different groups of foods, nutrients and products that reduce the levels blood glucose . These are more beneficial for people with diabetes, although it is not advisable to abuse them either, since it can lead to episodes of hypoglycemia.
- Protein combination: Cheese, eggs, lean meats or dairy products.
- Combination of fats from vegetable oils (olive, sunflower … etc.)
- Fiber: This micronutrient is found in fruits with skin, vegetable salads, wheat bran, oats or whole grains.
- In order not to increase blood glucose levels, it is advisable to avoid processed foods such as purees or smoothies.
- In case of consuming potatoes or sweet potatoes, it is advisable to cool before eating.
Why is the glycemic index important
The glycemic index is a term that has started to be used for a few years in the field of food to determine the capacity of a food to increase blood glucose . It is an element of great importance for people with diabetes.
On the other hand, another differential factor in food for people with diabetes is the level of carbohydrates that a food product can provide. Taking both factors into account, what is known as the glycemic load was created.
The glycemic load arises from multiplying the glycemic index of a food by the carbohydrates of the ration and we divide it by 100.
Ultimately, the glycemic load is a key element in determining whether a food produces a rapid increase in blood glucose levels or not.
It can happen that a food has a high glycemic index, but the glycemic peak is not really that high. This phenomenon occurs mainly in some fruits, which can offer a high glycemic index content but low carbohydrate levels.
How to measure blood glucose
Blood sugar is measured in healthy people in a conventional fasting urine or blood test. It should be especially monitored in obese people older than 50 years with high blood pressure or hypercholesterolemia.
The situation is different for people with diabetes. If applicable, they will need to check their blood sugar levels with a blood glucose meter every morning. With this measuring device, the blood glucose concentration, that is, the blood sugar, is determined immediately.
