Nutrients Needs in Diabetics

Calories

Calorie specifications are based on ideal weight, with allowances for physical activity, added stress or special circumstances, for example, during pregnancy, growth, adolescence, sports training, etc. If the person is obese, as many adult diabetics are, the diet prescription would indicate a sufficient reduction in calories to effect a gradual weight loss. If we are dealing with a fast-growing lean adolescent boy, calorie allowance will need to be high.

Carbohydrate

Carbohydrates contribute energy. The three groups of carbohydrates are sugars, starch and cellulose. Sugar, preserves, honey and fruits are high in sugar content. Cereals, root vegetables and pulses contain starch, while parts of fruit, vegetables and wholemeal cereals belong to the cellulose group. Fiber or cellulose although not a nutrient, furnishes for normal action of the muscles of the large bowel.

Adaptation for the diabetic involves systemizing their carbohydrate intake, so as to place as little strain as possible, only on the impaired blood sugar regulating mechanism. Carbohydrates should form approximately 50-55% of total calories. Habitual use of refined or free sugar should be avoided.

Protein

Body tissues, such as muscles, liver, kidneys, brain, etc., consist mainly of protein. Protein in the diet is necessary for growth, tissue repair and the maintenance of body processes. Meat, fish, poultry, eggs and milk are sources of animal protein, while cereal, pulses and nuts provide the vegetable protein. A mixture of both provides greater benefit than either alone.

For diabetic individuals, normal age group requirements govern the amount indicated. According to the latest findings, protein should contribute approximately 12-15% calories.

Fat

Fat may be derived from animal or vegetable sources, and may occur as solids or liquids (oil). Butter, margarine, cream, lard, cooking fats and oil are examples of fat sources. Fats provide a source of energy, are necessary in the formation of cell walls and as a precursor of certain hormones. However excess fat in the diet is unhealthy.