Diabetes has become a very serious concern for the last few years. The most difficult part of controlling diabetes is that it is a daily challenge. The biggest key to manage diabetes is to keep the blood sugar level as close to a normal level as possible. There are several questions people ask about diabetes management, which when answered correctly can help patients lead a much better and easier life.
- What are the ideal foods for a diabetic patient?
The most important question everyone asks is about the food which is most suitable for a patient with diabetes which can not only fulfill their nutritional requirements but also aid in reducing the blood sugar level. The foods which are rich in soluble dietary fiber and magnesium such as cabbage, spinach, beans, and whole grains should form a major part of the diet of a diabetic patient.
- If a diabetes patient skips a meal, should they take their medicine or reduce the dose?
The most important thing every patient should remember is to never skip any meal for even a single day. Skipping meals can not only lead to dysregulation in insulin and sugar levels but will also cause serious complications. Insulin is usually taken before a meal and the medicine after the meal. Thus, if the patient has skipped a meal, he should skip the tablet too.
- What are the fruits which can be eaten by a diabetic patient?
The fruits which are rich in vitamin C such as guava and citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are the most suitable option for a diabetic patient. Other fruits including berries, grapes, avocados, kiwi fruit, papaya and pomegranates which are rich in antioxidants are good for a diabetic.
- Is it okay for a patient to eat rice in a moderate amount or it should be avoided completely?
White rice is high in sugar level and low in fibers. Thus it is not advisable to completely avoid rice but to limit the amount and the number of times you eat it in a day. Diabetes patients should remember to eat rice in small servings and not more than once daily.
- If a person eats lots of sweets during any occasion, should they increase the insulin dose as compensation?
For type 1 diabetes patients, it is advised to check their glucose level. If two or more readings are higher than normal, they can increase the dose. However, it should be remembered that one single increased sugar level does not require an increased insulin dose.
On the other hand, if a patient is type 2 diabetic, they do not need to change the dose of their medicine at all. They simply need to exercise and eat food which can reduce blood sugar levels quickly.
- What is HbA1c and what is its importance?
Glycosylated hemoglobin or HbA1c is of immense importance in the control of diabetes. A level of more than 6.5 usually indicates that the patient is diabetic. This test should be done every 2 months in a diabetic to monitor the blood sugar level for effective control.
