Diet therapy is essential in the control of all diabetics, be they on diet alone, oral medication or insulin.

The aims of dietary management are:

1. To help control levels of glucose in the blood, and prevent loss of glucose in the urine.

2. To achieve a satisfactory weight. If you are overweight you will need to lose weight to achieve ideal body weight suitable for your age, sex, height, and body build. This is important because obesity is a health hazard particularly for diabetics. If you are underweight you will need to increase your body weight.

3. To provide a palatable diet which si acceptable to the individual.

4. To provide sufficient calories for normal activities.

The diet will be individualized for each person. The physician’s prescription is based on:

i. Age, sex, weight, height and activity of the individual.

ii. Type of diabetes IDDM (Insulin Dependent) or NIDDM (Non-Insulin Dependent)

iii. Type of medication, amount and when administered.

iv. Nutritional requirements of the individual.

Low Carb Diabetic Diet