How much, when, and what you eat can impact your blood sugar levels. But you do not need to go on a special diet – the diet for people with diabetes is simply a healthy eating plan which helps to control blood sugar.

See a dietitian for nutritional advice and obtain a diet plan that is tailored for you. In the meantime, the following are some tips to help you get started:

1. Enjoy A Variety Of Food From The Different Food Groups In Appropriate Portions

2. Take Note Of Carbohydrates & Include Low GI Options

Carbohydrates have the greatest and most immediate impact on blood sugar levels. They are the body’s main source of energy, fuelling our daily activities. So moderate your carbohydrate intake, and make smarter choices – get carbohydrates from wholegrain foods (e.g., brown rice, wholemeal bread and oats), vegetables, fruits and beans. These are rich in fibre and other nutrients, and may help with blood sugar management. Food and drinks with added sugar such as cakes and soft drinks should be limited, as they often have low nutritional value.

Consider choosing low or medium GI food options over high GI food items.

What is GI?

GI, or Glycemic Index, is a ranking of carbohydrates on a scale of 0 to 100 according to the extent to which they raise blood sugar levels after eating. High GI food has a GI of 70 or more, whereas medium GI food has a rating of between 56-69. Food low in GI has a rating of 55 or less.

Consumption of food items that are high in GI will cause a higher peak in your blood sugar as compared to one with low or medium GI. You should aim to avoid high GI food items to help better manage your blood glucose level as well as for sustain energy through the day. See GI index of common food items here.

3. Fat Matters

Watch your total fat intake to help manage your weight. Also, limit saturated fat and trans fat, which can increase the risk of developing heart disease. Here are some tips to help reduce your intake of these “bad” fats:

• Choose lean meat and skinless chicken/poultry, and trim all visible fat before cooking.
• Use healthier oils such as canola, soy, olive, sunflower and peanut.
• Replace coconut milk or coconut cream in cooking with low fat milk.
• Replace meat in dishes with beans and bean products (e.g. tofu) on some days.
• Limit deep-fried foods.
• Read ingredient list to identify products that contain vegetable shortening and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils – choose these products less often.

4. Reduce Intake Of Salt & Canned Food

Use less salt and sauces, and cut down on eating canned, preserved or processed foods. These contain a lot of sodium, and a diet high in sodium can increase your blood pressure. Try flavouring foods with herbs and spices instead.

5. Have Regular Meals

Stick to your regular meal times and space out your meals and snacks over the course of the day.

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