The pre-diabetic diet aims to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. It is similar to the diet recommended for diabetics and includes lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and low-carb fruits. Processed foods should be avoided, and exercise is recommended. Some popular diets resemble the pre-diabetic diet, but medical advice should be sought before starting any weight loss plan.
The pre-diabetic diet is a type of nutrition program designed to help people at risk avoid developing type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes. There is debate among experts about how the diet should be broken down in terms of protein, carbohydrates, and other foods to prevent a patient’s blood sugar levels from rising to dangerously unhealthy levels. Despite some difference of opinion, there are many dietary features on which physicians agree.
The pre-diabetic diet is similar to the diet recommended for diabetics. Doctors urge those diagnosed as pre-diabetics to stick to this diet to prevent the development of full-blown type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and many doctors and dietitians suggest a low-fat diet that favors proteins such as lean meats, poultry, and fish, as well as vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat dairy products.
Some fruits are rich in carbohydrates, but doctors still say that patients should not avoid these types of foods due to their nutritional value. Portion control is the key. Any type of fruit is fine, as long as the serving contains no more than 15 grams of carbohydrate. Low-carb fruits, like raspberries and blackberries, are good because they can be enjoyed in large quantities without exceeding 15 grams of carbs per serving. Pre-diabetic diets can also include high-carbohydrate fruits, such as mangoes and oranges, as long as portions are kept small.
Many experts warn against processed foods, which are often high in saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, salt, and chemical preservatives. High fructose corn syrup, a common ingredient in many processed foods, is especially problematic because it has been shown to reduce glucose tolerance and insulin function. Glucose is a simple sugar that fuels the cells of the body, and insulin is one of the hormones that regulate it.
People diagnosed as pre-diabetic have blood glucose levels that are higher than normal, between 100 and 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), but not high enough to classify them as diabetic. A blood glucose level of 126 mg/dl or higher places an individual in the diabetic category. In type 2 diabetes, the body is unable to use some or all of the insulin produced by the pancreas, which raises blood glucose levels.
Doctors also agree that in addition to following the pre-diabetic diet, patients should engage in an exercise regimen lasting at least 30 minutes per day. Several studies have shown that exercise and healthy food choices can reduce the chance of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 60 percent. People who are overweight or obese are encouraged to lose weight in addition to making radical lifestyle changes.
To varying degrees, some highly publicized diets resemble the pre-diabetic diet and its balanced composition of protein, carbohydrates, and fruits and vegetables. Examples of these include the Atkins diet, the South Beach diet, and the Zone diet. Despite these superficial similarities, patients should consult with a doctor before embarking on any diet or weight loss plan.
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