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A nutrient-rich diet can help individuals with diabetes achieve better glycemic control, reduce complications, and support overall health
A glucometer is the only device that can help you keep an eye on your blood sugar levels at home. (Representative image)
A healthy diet rich in nutrients like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and enhancing overall health, especially for people with diabetes. Such foods offer essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support bodily functions and help stabilize blood glucose levels. Whole grains and fiber-rich vegetables, for example, slow down glucose absorption, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar. Lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, and legumes, also have a minimal impact on blood sugar while promoting satiety, helping to manage weight—an important factor in diabetes management.
Diabetes-specific nutrition (DSN) further refines these principles by focusing on food choices that are especially beneficial for blood sugar control. DSN involves selecting carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, which means they are absorbed more slowly, helping to maintain steadier blood sugar levels. It also emphasizes portion control and balanced meals that combine protein, fiber, and healthy fats to reduce post-meal glucose spikes. Incorporating DSN alongside a nutrient-rich diet can help individuals with diabetes achieve better glycemic control, reduce complications, and support overall health, empowering them to lead healthier lives with fewer dietary restrictions and enhanced energy.
Dr. Irfan Shaikh, Associate Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott in India, says “For those living with diabetes, understanding nutrition may seem difficult, but establishing a healthy diet doesn’t have to be hard. Following a healthy eating pattern that includes a variety of foods that have a lot of nutrients but relatively few calories, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins – in appropriate portion sizes can help individuals manage their condition and improve overall health. Research also shows that diabetes-specific nutrition (DSN) can help support blood sugar management – and they can be a convenient, trusted nutrition source. Some DSNs contain slowly digestible carbohydrates, healthy fats and specific micronutrients, which provide added benefits over standard nutrition formulas. When used as meal replacements or as supplement, these can help cut calories, provide sustained energy and minimize blood sugar spikes.”
