Monitoring sugar consumption is a crucial aspect of diabetes care. However, food labels can identify other factors that can affect diabetic health, both directly and indirectly. Here are five parts of the food label that should be taken into careful consideration.
Carbohydrates
The number of carbohydrates listed on food's nutrition facts is a total of three different types: sugar, complex carbs, and fiber. Underneath the total amount, the amounts of sugars and dietary fiber are listed separately. The remaining carbs, once sugar and fiber are subtracted from the total, are complex carbs. Even when avoiding sugar, a diabetic patient can still be taking in too many carbohydrates via complex carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar to rise.
Fiber
Fiber is extremely beneficial to diabetic health. While it is a carbohydrate, it's mostly indigestible and used by the body to promote healthy digestion. It can help to slow blood sugar rise after meals, as well as promote
weight management, satiation, and cholesterol reduction.
Fats
Healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, can actually be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Bad fats, such as saturated and trans fats, should be avoided as often as possible. The good fats can contribute to heart health, which is essential for diabetics, who are at increased risk for heart disease.
Sodium
While sodium doesn't have a direct effect on blood sugar levels, too much can have an impact on general health and cause high blood pressure, which diabetics are already at a higher risk of developing. Keeping sodium intake at 2,300 mg or less per day is recommended.
Serving Size
Food labels can be tricky because the numbers listed for each item on a food label apply to only one serving of that product. Even if the package seems like it should be a single serving, it may not be. It's important to check the serving size and servings per container at the top to understand what a recommended serving is and how to keep track of nutritional values.
Monitoring the types of foods and how much of them you eat is necessary for
managing diabetes. If you have questions about your diabetes care, contact Razi Medical Group today
online or by phone at 760-245-6106.
Image by U.S. Department of Agriculture
