A DIABETIC Diet for Vegetarians

Testing the blood glucose level yourself
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you are a vegetarian who has been diagnosed with diabetes, you can still maintain your diabetic diet.  In some cases a vegetarian diet may be a healthy way to keep your blood glucose levels stable - that is if you are eating lean high-quality proteins and are following other rules for eating as a diabetic.

As a lot of vegans and vegetarians eat a larger amount of fruits and vegetables in a day than a non-vegetarian and their fiber intake is much higher too.  An increased amount of fiber in a diabetic’s diet can help blood sugars because it slows down the process of the body digesting carbohydrates.  A vegetarian’s diet is usually lower in cholesterol as well and it can help ward off cardiovascular disease including heart attacks and strokes.

If you are diabetic and are considering a switch to a diabetic diet some of the benefits you might derive include a higher rate of weight loss and better blood sugar readings.  This is dependant on the types of vegetarian meals you choose as some meatless meals can be just as fattening as ones that contain meat.

Speak to your doctor and dietician before making the switch.  You will need information on how to transition yourself to your new diet.  You will also get a list of meat alternatives you should eat in order to get enough protein in a day.  These can include tofu, nuts, eggs, and seeds.

As with any change, once your switch to a vegetarian diet give yourself and your body time to adjust.  There are many recipes and ideas for vegetarian dishes and you will find a lot of variety and flexibility in the meals that you prepare.  Check your blood sugars frequently to make sure your blood glucose levels remain stable during the change.