Information about what persons with diabetes should eat and drink can be confusing. One point of confusion is sugar, which doesn’t necessarily mean something sweet, like cookies, pie or regular soft drinks.
When tracking the sugar in your diet, think beyond sweet stuff. Carbohydrates — also called carbs for short — are sugar (glucose) molecules. This glucose is the main source of energy for the cells and organs of our bodies.
So we need glucose to thrive. The tricky part is balancing enough glucose to fuel our bodies versus too much glucose, which causes complications with diabetes.
Back to best choices of food and beverage for those with diabetes: While your body needs carbs to function, you can choose wisely. For instance, pick whole grain oatmeal instead of instant oatmeal that’s been ground up. Our bodies can’t absorb and break down fiber, so it doesn’t cause a spike your blood sugar the way processed grains do.
If you do the grocery shopping and food preparation in your home, you can help everyone by bringing home beverages and food that are wise options. If there’s fresh fruit instead of canned fruit in heavy syrup available, the healthful choice is easy.
Affordability is always part of the equation when choosing groceries. Take a look at the American Diabetes Association’s website for ideas on low-cost options. Even traditional dishes like sloppy joes and chicken pot pie can be prepared to fit your diabetic diet and your budget.
Folks with diabetes have ongoing healthcare costs besides food. Talk to your pharmacist if you cannot afford your diabetic medication or supplies; or go visit the American Diabetes Association website.
You can also contact Dallas County Health Navigation to explore help with expenses. Email to phn@dallascountyiowa.gov or complete the confidential application form on our website.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
