New U.S. dietary guidelines for diabetes released

January 8, 2002 in Diabetes & Diabetes Prevention, Healthy Eating

New U.S. dietary guidelines for diabetes released

A diet that is low in fat, rich in fruits and vegetables and includes an occasional cookie or glass of wine can be as effective as some drugs when it comes to treating and preventing type 2 diabetes, says the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

The updated nutrition guidelines, aimed at the estimated 16 million Americans with diabetes, reinforces the idea that it is the total amount of carbohydrates consumed in meals and snacks--not the source--that is the key to diabetes control. Previously, it was believed that carbohydrates from cakes, cookies, pasta and potatoes caused dangerous spikes in blood glucose (sugar) levels.

It is true that these foods have a higher "glycemic index," meaning they cause a faster rise in blood sugar compared with other carbohydrates such as whole wheat pasta or brown rice. But studies have not shown a significant benefit for low glycemic index diets over high glycemic index diets, the ADA states.

The guidelines do not support diets that focus on a food's potential to cause blood sugar to rise, which have not proven to be effective when it comes to controlling diabetes and may be difficult to maintain over the long term. Fad diets that severely restrict an entire category of food, such as low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets, have also not proven to be safe and effective over the long term. Not only are these diets potentially taxing to the kidneys of diabetic patients, they also tend to be high in fat. And high fat diets can increase the risk of heart and blood vessel disease, which is the most common complication of diabetes.

The ADA advises patients to follow individualized eating plans designed by a dietitian. These plans should take into account a person's blood glucose, cholesterol level, blood pressure, weight and medical complications, in addition to lifestyle and food preferences. Everyone, including people with diabetes, should eat fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables because they contain vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients.

Protein from lean sources such as chicken and fish can account for up to 20% of a person's daily calorie intake, provided that his or her kidneys are functioning normally, and saturated fat and cholesterol should be limited.

Men can consume up to two drinks a day, and women can enjoy one drink, defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. Alcohol should be consumed with food and not used as a substitute, the group recommends.

The guidelines also emphasize weight loss and physical activity, which have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and help control blood sugar in overweight people with type 2 diabetes. Excess body weight is a major risk factor for diabetes.

All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.