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Archive for the ‘Diabetes and Obesity’ Category

As a diabetic who is trying to lose weight, it is not only important what you eat and how much but what you eat together too.  Foods react differently together and for optimal performance and the best affect on your blood glucose level there are a few guidelines that should be followed.

At each meal you should have a combination of carbohydrates and protein and you can have fat in moderation.  The majority of the foods a diabetic will eat fall under the carbohydrate category, carbohydrates can be found in:

*    Fruits
*    Vegetables
*    Beans
*    Dairy Products
*    Bread
*    Grains

To reduce blood sugars and lose weight, a diet where carbohydrates are counted and controlled is necessary.  Depending on your weight and height your dietician will provide you with a number of carbohydrates that you can have at each meal.  Some carbohydrates are better choices than others; choose fresh and whole wheat whenever possible.

Choosing carbohydrates that are high in fiber can help to reduce your blood glucose levels and will keep you feeling full for longer.  Higher fiber content allows you to eat more an item without suffering the consequences later on.

At each meal, a small amount of protein will help counter-act the carbohydrate’s affect of raising blood sugars.  Protein will also sustain you longer and you will not be hungry as quickly if you did not have protein at one of your meals or for snack.  Choose high-quality protein that is not fried.  Remove excess fat when it is possible such as chicken skin before eating.

Following a healthy eating plan with the correct number of carbohydrates at each meal combine with a protein can help you lose weight and manage your diabetes.  Make time for exercising in your week too and you are sure to lose weight and have more energy.

Many people suffer from depression at some point in their lives and people with diabetes are no exception.  If you are obese and have type 2 diabetes you may blame yourself and your lifestyle on the disease you now have.  It is hard to adjust to a new lifestyle. Feeling down or guilty about this is okay and even normal but if it turns into something more you need to seek professional help.

It is normal to feel down about having diabetes in the beginning but once you learn more about the disease and how to control it you can also feel more in control of your life again.  Take charge, if you are obese and want to improve your blood glucose levels you can.  By eating a healthy diet and regular exercise you can lose weight and improve your blood sugars.

If your feeling of being down or hopeless will not go away and is accompanied by any of the following as well you may be depressed.  If this is the case, contact your doctor right away.

Signs of depression:
*You are no longer sleeping like you used to (more or less)
*Not enjoying life or everyday activities like you used to
*No energy to do things you want or have to do
*You are eating more or less or have sudden weight gain or loss

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you seek help.  Being obese and diabetic can be trying both mentally and physically.  It is important to know that you can take action to make things better.  Your diabetes may never go away but you can certainly keep it under control and live a full life.  By losing weight, even a small amount, you can make a huge difference in your health and diabetes.