Food is fuel for the human body. Although unimportant to some individuals, to others, it is something more. It can be an event that you look forward to at the end of the day.Tastes and textures you crave can be a part of your soul! It can also cheer you up on a bad day or just remind you of a nostalgic memory that is happy!
Changing your food habit or diet can be very hard. As taking away your food comforts coupled with getting your palate to like it is a feat near impossible!
Here are 5 tips on how to change your diet to help your diabetes.
#1 – Find food substitutes you like
Finding food substitutes may take some time, but in the end, it will be worth it. For example, using almond milk instead of milk is healthier and is good for diabetics as it has fewer calories. Avocado instead of butter in baking may seem troublesome, but it means you can eat more baked goods!
#2 – Look for the silver lining
Yes, change is hard. Yes, it may not suit your tastebuds initially. But think of it as an investment. Surely, your well-being is worth all the sacrifices you have made and will make. Eventually, you will get used to it, and it will not seem as bad after all.
#3 – Change everyone else
Changing everyone’s diet may seem extreme but adding healthier food options helps you to comply with the new lifestyle change. This also benefits those around you as your relatives will have a higher risk of diabetes as well. For kids, this change guides them towards a healthier lifestyle which they will be more likely to adhere to in the future.
#4 – Portion and knowledge
Learn about all the foods that are good and which ones are a no-no! Think about portion control as it helps you with blood glucose control and weight loss.
#5 – Apps and gadgets
Download certain apps on your phones to help keep track of the amount of carbohydrates, fat, and calories that you consume every day. There are also applications that are specific for diabetics. They may include recipes that are recommended for you, allowing you to save time with meal planning for the whole week ahead.