New Delhi: If your child has type-1 diabetes, choosing the right foods can help you manage your blood sugar levels and maintain your overall health. Wheat and rice are staple grains in India, but they can cause spikes in blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. Luckily, there are several healthy alternatives that can be included in the diet without compromising on taste and nutrition. While atta (wheat )and chawal (rice) are off the diet chart for good reason, read on to know the other, healthier alternatives.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Shweta Jaiswal, Senior Dietician at Sharda Hospital, listed 7 alternatives to atta and chawal that are safer for children with type-1 diabetes.
Bajra: Bajra is a beneficial grain to add to a diabetic diet because of its high levels of dietary fiber. It has a moderate glycemic index of 54, and high nutritional and fiber content. It also does not lead to a spike in your sugar levels and therefore, it is suitable for a person having diabetes.
Ragi: Ragi is frequently recommended to diabetics as a viable alternative to white rice and wheat because it helps in maintaining their blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Additionally, the dietary fiber in ragi helps keep cravings at bay and helps maintain a smooth digestive process.
Oats: Oats are high in fiber and hence, they can help manage your blood sugar levels. They’re a good option for diabetics because they’re simple to incorporate into your daily meals. As long as the portion is regulated, oatmeal has a number of health advantages and can be a fantastic go-to dish for people with diabetes.
Quinoa: Quinoa, another suitable grain choice for type 1 diabetics can be prepared in versatile ways. Although quinoa is frequently mistaken for whole grain, it is actually a highly nutritious seed that is rich in fiber and protein. For people with diabetes and those who are at risk of getting it, quinoa is a suitable grain
Barley: Barley is a dietary fiber that can slow down digestion. Whole-grain barley is regarded as an extraordinarily healthy grain for diabetics. It is also a rich source of magnesium and contains the soluble fiber beta-glucan which sticks to sugar in the digestive tract to slow down absorption.
Buckwheat: Although buckwheat is frequently misidentified as a whole grain, it is a fruit seed. You can increase the amount of soluble fiber in your diet by substituting buckwheat flour for conventional white flour. Buckwheat is safe for diabetics because of its low to medium glycemic index, which does not lead to a spike in sugar levels.
Brown rice: Brown rice is the best type of rice for diabetics. It has a lower glycemic index than white rice, so it is digested more slowly, resulting in more stable blood sugar levels. Brown rice is also higher in fiber and other nutrients that help to reduce cholesterol levels. To manage diabetes effectively, it is important to watch portion sizes and monitor blood sugar levels throughout the day.
If your child has type-1 diabetes, choosing the right foods can help you manage your blood sugar levels and maintain your overall health. Wheat and rice are staple grains in India, but they can cause spikes in blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
