Health can be a matter of choice even for those who suffer from diabetes. Successfully managing diabetes depends on the diet and the general lifestyle of the patient (where lifestyle also refers to physical activity). However, diabetics are very often concerned with their dietary choices which seem to be quite limited.

The truth is, that with proper training and guidance, a person with diabetes can have the same food choices as someone who doesn’t suffer from the disease, provided that they follow some basic rules.

It’s all about moderation. Diabetics can moderately consume almost any food as part of a properly designed nutrition plan. It goes without saying that they must be well informed so that their dietary choices (i.e. type of food, quantity and frequency of consumption) are adjusted with their medical treatment plan and their overall lifestyle.

Specific eating timing. It seems that eating in specific hours is of great importance for those suffering from diabetes. The desired timing for consuming any meal or snack varies and depends on lifestyle, treatment goals and drug regimen. It is important however that the timing agreed between the patient and their doctor is strictly followed.

Apportionment of carbohydrates. People with diabetes should be properly trained to know the amount of carbohydrates contained in their foods or the type and amount of carbohydrates that they can consume in every meal, so that they can always make the right choice depending on their preferences, lifestyle and drug regimen. Many people suffering from diabetes find it hard to change their eating habits and adapt to a new diet. However, change is important in order for them to remain healthy while being diabetic.

This is a known fact to scientists seeking solutions that can make healthy eating easier and more accessible. Many speakers at the European Congress of the European Federation of Associations of Dietitians (EFAD) emphasised how dietary guidelines may be harmonised with the lifestyle and personal preferences of people with diabetes.

“Taking into account the available scientific data, we conclude that we should not force our patients to follow specific dietary patterns.

“On the contrary, we are the ones who should adapt as far as possible, to the treatment, preferences and lifestyles of our patients,” said Dr Papakonstantintou, a lecturer specialised in nutrition and diabetes.

Thanks to the progress in food science and technology, many of the foods and beverages that until a short time ago were considered as prohibited have become more accessible.

Today, thanks to the use of approved low calorie sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose and stevia, people with diabetes are allowed to enjoy a variety of products within a balanced diet.