What is the Diabetic Food Pyramid?
The diabetic food pyramid is a simple, visual key to the right and wrong food groups that should be eaten by a person
with diabetes. The aim of the pyramid is to focus on sugar and fats that occur in the food
groups. As sugar cannot be absorbed by a diabetic person and excessive fat leads to a worsening of health and diabetes in general it is hoped
that the pyramid can simplify the eating choices that diabetics have to make. The pyramid is sanctioned by the American Dietetic Association
(ADA) and The American Diabetes Association.
The diabetic food pyramid also suggests serving sizes and suggestions for meal plans provides pyramid is a lifesaver to many people. Just by
looking at the pyramid they can tell which foods to eat and which ones not to. It also suggests serving sizes and suggestions for planning whole
meals.
The diabetic food pyramid is divided into six sections. The bottom section is the largest, the middle sections are smaller but still larger than
the section above them until the top of the pyramid which is the smallest section. The size is an indication of the importance of the food group
within each section.
Thus at the bottom is grains, starchy vegetables, and beans. The pyramid suggests that this food group is the best for diabetics and recommends a
daily intake in terms of serving and size. The second groupings on the diabetic food pyramid includes vegetables and fruits. The third
includes diary products, meats and other sources of protein. At the top the list of fats, oils, and sweets. The pyramid suggests these foodstuffs
should consumed he least.
Not surprisingly this pyramid of recommended foodstuffs could be applied to the diets of people who don't have diabetes as the suggestions make
for a balanced but varied diet. Given that Type 2 diabetics can be brought on by poor eating habits it makes sense that everybody be aware of the
diabetic food pyramid.
The latest version of the diabetic food pyramid was created by the US Department of Agriculture in 2005. Not only does it describe what to eat,
but it also makes recommendations on calorie intake!
If you want to find out more about the diabetic food pyramid it is very simple to find diagrams and associated guides on the internet. It would
be quite simple to print the pryamid out and stick it on the wall in your kitchen for future reference.
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