Can I eat foods that contain sugar?

Yes, you can eat foods that contain sugar. But, and there is a but, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional who can advise you how to fit in sugar into your diet. Sugar is best avoided as it no nutritional value and can add on the pounds.

How much carbohydrate should someone with diabetes eat?

The amount of carbohydrates a person should eat at each meal or snack depends upon the individual. It is important to speak to your healthcare professional to see what would be best for you.

However the American Diabetes Association (2013) recommends that carbohydrates from vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes and dairy should be eaten, rather than foods that contain added fat, sugar and sodium.

Can I drink alcohol?

The American Diabetes Association (2013) recommends, as for the general public, that persons with diabetes should drink in moderation. 1 drink or less per day for a woman and 2 drinks per day or less for a man.

People with diabetes are at risk of delayed hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Make sure you ask the DEN team about how to prevent, recognize, and treat hypoglycemia.

Reference
American Diabetes Association, Diabetes Care, Nutrition Therapy Recommendations for the Management of Persons with Diabetes, pages1-22, 9th October 2013.