Planning Meal for Active Diabetics
While exercise is an important part of maintaining health for anyone, diabetics will find it especially beneficial. Besides helping to maintain a healthy weight and giving an increased level of energy, exercise can also be helpful in managing diabetes by keeping your blood sugar in check.
But an active diabetic needs to take extra care and precautions to ensure they are getting enough fuel for their body so their blood sugars do not drop dangerously low – known as hypoglycemia.
The amount you exercise is going to determine how much you are going to eat on your diabetic meal plan. The more physically active you are the higher your nutritional requirements and the higher your risk is for developing hypoglycemia.
The best practice when you are just starting out is to monitor your blood sugars before and after working out and during if you feel it is necessary. It is important to listen to your body and stop if you are feeling light-headed or are experiencing any of the other signs associated with low blood sugar.
You should eat right before your workouts as well. Eat something which will keep you going through your routine – a good choice is a handful of nuts and a granola bar; this is a high fiber carbohydrate and a good quality protein; this should keep your energy level up.
You should always have high fiber foods before a workout; fiber causes carbohydrates to be digested more slowly, which keeps your energy level steady instead of giving you a rush and then a crash quickly following.
Always drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while working out. In case of a sudden drop in blood sugar, it’s best to carry some glucose tablets and/or hard candy to bring your glucose level back up quickly if needed. Of course, even when you’re not at the gym, eat a healthy, nutritionally balanced diet which will ensure a steady level of energy and good health overall.
