We often hear the saying that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. While this cannot be denied, it does not mean that you should not pay attention to your dinner. If you have diabetes, it is also important to make the right choices at the dinner table. Certain foods and beverages can increase blood sugar levels and should not be consumed in a diabetes diet. However, most of us are unaware of what is right and what is not for our condition. Due to this, we end up eating things that we should not. To avoid getting into such a situation, we have compiled a list of some common mistakes that you should avoid making at dinner. Read on to know more and see if you are making any of these mistakes.
Also read: Battling prediabetes? These 3 nutritionist-approved tips can help control the condition
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Diabetes diet | Avoid these 5 mistakes in dinner if you have diabetes:
1. No fixed time
Do you eat dinner at 7 pm one day and at 9 pm the next? If so, you must change this habit. We understand that it can be challenging to have a fixed time for dinner in today’s fast-paced life. However, try to reduce this gap as much as possible every day. When you start eating at a fixed time, your body gets used to it and the blood sugar levels do not increase much.
2. Excessive intake of carbohydrates
Carbohydrates have a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but that’s not really the case. The trick is to be mindful of your intake and the type of carbohydrates you consume. Choose complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates, as they have a lower impact on blood sugar. Some great options to consider include oats, brown rice, quinoa, millets and whole wheat flour (atta).
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3. Not including fibre/protein in your meals
This is the most common mistake we all make. When planning your dinner, it is important to include enough fibre and protein along with carbs. A balanced diet ensures that you get all the essential nutrients required for optimal health. Foods rich in fibre and protein help control blood sugar better and also keep you full for a longer period of time.
4. Choosing unhealthy accompaniments
You should also pay attention to the type of things you eat with your meals. Some of them are high in sugar and you may be harming your condition unknowingly. Tomato ketchup, sweet chutneys and dips are something you should stay away from. If you are having raita, avoid adding sugar to it. Try eating homemade chutneys to enhance the taste of your food.
Also read: Okra Water For Diabetes: 4 Ways This Mix Can Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels
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5. Not practicing portion control
Do you often overeat at dinner? If so, it’s time to stop! No matter how healthy you try to make your dinner, you’re still eating. If you overeat, there’s a high chance that your blood sugar levels may spike. As a general rule, avoid eating when you start to feel a little full. This way, you’ll naturally eat less and avoid overeating.
Diabetes can be a matter of concern, but it can be controlled with the right dietary choices. Don’t forget to keep these things in mind the next time you have your dinner.
