We often hear the phrase "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day". While there's no denying this, it doesn't mean you shouldn't pay attention to your dinner. If you have diabetes, it is even essential to make the right choices at the dinner table. Certain foods and beverages can cause a rise in blood sugar levels and should be avoided in a diabetes diet. However, most of us are unaware of what is right for our condition and what is not. Due to this, we may end up consuming things we shouldn't. To avoid being in such a situation, we have curated a list of some common mistakes you should avoid at dinner. Read on to find out and see if you're making any of these.
Also Read: Struggling With Prediabetes? These 3 Nutritionist-Approved Tips May Help Manage The Condition
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Diabetes Diet | Here Are 5 Dinner Mistakes To Avoid If You Have Diabetes:
1. Not Having A Set Time
Do you have your dinner at 7 pm one day and at 9 pm the next? If so, you must change this habit. We understand that keeping a set time for dinner can be challenging in today's fast-paced lives. However, try to minimise the gap as much as you can each day. When you start having dinner at a set time, your body gets accustomed to it and doesn't cause much spike in blood sugar levels.
2. Overloading On Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates have a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but they really are not. The trick is to be mindful of your consumption and the type of carbohydrates you're having. Opt for complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates, as they have less 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 Meal
This is the most common mistake that we all make. When planning our dinner, it is important to include a sufficient amount of fibre and protein along with the carbs. A balanced meal ensures that you get all the essential nutrients required for optimal health. Foods high in fibre and protein aid in better control of blood sugar and also keep you full for a longer time.
4. Choosing Unhealthy Accompaniments
You must also be mindful of the type of accompaniments you pair with your dinner. Some of them have a high sugar content, and you may be unknowingly causing harm to your condition. Tomato ketchup, sweet chutneys, and dips are ones that you should steer clear of. If you're having raita, avoid adding any sugar to it. Try to have homemade chutneys to enhance the flavour of your food.
Also Read: Okra Water For Diabetes: 4 Ways This Concoction May Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels
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5. Not Exercising Portion Control
Do you often end up overeating at dinner? If so, it's time to stop! No matter how healthy you try to make your dinner, you're still consuming food. If you go overboard, there is a high chance that your blood sugar levels can increase. As a rule of thumb, avoid having food once you start to feel slightly full. This way, you'll naturally eat less and avoid overeating.
Diabetes can be a cause of worry, but it can be managed with the right dietary choices. Remember to keep these pointers in mind the next time you have your dinner.