Diet & Diabetes Emma Cunningham Diabetes Dietitian Community Diabetes Team

What we will be covering: Why diet is important in diabetes Healthy eating in diabetes Benefits of weight loss in diabetes Myths and facts regarding diet for diabetes

What is healthy eating?

Steps to healthy eating Eat regular meals Aim for at least 5 portions a day of fruit and vegetables Limit sugar intake Reduce fat intake Aim for 2 portions of oily fish a week Use less salt Alcohol in moderation only Avoid diabetic products Include more beans, lentils and pulses

Which foods effect blood glucose levels Day to Day Carbohydrates Long Term Saturated fats Weight gain- fats/ alcohol/ portion sizes

Carbohydrates STARCHSUGAR Bread Chapattis Potatoes Pasta Rice Yam Breakfast Cereals Vegetables Sugar Honey Sweets & chocolate Biscuits & cakes Full sugar drinks Fruit Jam/ Marmalade Milk/ yoghurt Puddings

Weight Management

Benefits of weight loss in diabetes Reduces risk of developing diabetes in people at high risk Reduces risk of long term complications Makes it easier to control blood glucose Reduces blood pressure and can help cholesterol levels

Why do we gain weight?

Eating an extra 100 calories a day to what your body needs can lead to weight gain of 8-11 lb/ 4-5 kg a year By having 100 less calories a day the reverse can happen By making small realistic changes you will lose weight over time and are more likely to keep the weight off

Tips for successful weight loss: 1.Keep a food diary 2.Eat regular meals 3.Reduce portion sizes 4.Increase fruit and vegetables 5.Fill half plate with vegetables at main meal 6.Reduce snacks and if including snacks choose healthier options 7.Plan meals 8.Increase physical activity 9.Weight weekly 10.Be aware of alcohol

Alcohol Recommendations: Men- no more than 3 units per day Women no more than 2 units per day

Units

Any questions? Thank you for listening