Fiber Rich Diabetic Diet

Diabetes is a growing health problem in the U.S. The American Diabetes Association calls the disease a condition "in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin," which is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy. Fortunately, there are steps a person can take, including eating a high-fiber diet, to help control or prevent diabetes.

Facts

Currently, 8 percent of the population has been diagnosed with diabetes (an estimated 17.9 million people). However, approximately 5.7 million people remain undiagnosed with the disease. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported in a 2004 research study that diets rich in fiber may help prevent diabetes as well as prevent the progression of the disease in some people. The results found that diabetics should consume 25 to 50 grams of fiber a day.

Recommendations

Diabetic patients must maintain a healthy body weight as part of their health care regimen. Body mass index (BMI) should be 25 or less. Because raw foods such as fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, it is recommended they eat at least four servings of vegetables and as much fruit as they want each day. Other recommended high-fiber foods include whole-grain products such as bread, cereal, crackers and pasta, brown rice, foods in the oat family, flaxseed, nuts and legumes such as beans, peas and lentils. Foods high in protein generally do not contain much fiber (for example, fish, chicken and steak) unless they have been fortified with fiber (such as the soy product tempeh). Fats including butter, oil and mayonnaise do not contain any fiber.
In general, diabetic patients should make carbohydrates 55 to 65 percent, protein 11 to 18 percent and fats 25 to 30 percent of their diet.

Glycemic Index

When choosing fibrous foods, diabetics should opt for those with a low-glycemic index. Foods high on the glycemic index can rapidly spike blood sugar levels, which is harmful for diabetic patients, who must keep their blood sugar leveled in order to prevent diabetic shock. Examples of high-fiber, low-glycemic-index foods include prunes, yams, veggie burgers, bran cereals, apples, pears and grapefruit.