Can a vegetarian diet be beneficial for a diabetic patient? here’s the truth

Last Update: January 07, 2023, 19:45 IST

There is no single vegetarian diet that people with diabetes can follow.

The benefits of a vegetarian diet depend on the type of diet you choose and the foods you choose to eat.

Your diabetes probably won’t be cured by a vegetarian diet. But it may have some advantages over a non-vegetarian diet. For example, it may support better weight management, reduce the risk of certain complications associated with diabetes, and increase your body’s insulin sensitivity. There is no single vegetarian diet that people with diabetes can follow. For example, some allow dairy products, while others prohibit the use of animal products. The benefits of a vegetarian diet depend on the type of diet you choose and the foods you choose to eat. But for most people adopting a vegetarian diet can be a cost-effective solution.

Compared to non-vegetarian diets, vegetarian diets usually contain fewer calories. This can help in controlling weight. Compared to those who eat meat and other animal products, vegetarians generally have a lower body mass index (BMI). A healthy body weight can lower your risk of diabetes complications, and help you better control your blood sugar.

Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts can enhance blood sugar regulation and increase insulin sensitivity. As a result, you may need to take fewer medicines and experience fewer complications from diabetes.

A strict vegetarian diet excludes all cholesterol, contains little saturated fat, and usually contains a lot of soluble fiber. Eating a low-fat vegetarian diet may reduce your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease, as complications of diabetes are often associated with heart disease.

Consulting a nutritionist can be beneficial if you are thinking of choosing a vegetarian diet. They can help you develop a diet that provides all the nutrients you need, and the ideal amount of calories to help you maintain a healthy weight. As with any diet, it’s important to maintain a healthy calorie intake if weight loss is your primary objective.

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