Diabetes Diet - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Still Have Some Sugar in my Diet?

A: Yes. The diet for diabetes does not mean a ‘sugar free’ diet. Sugar can be eaten as part of a balanced, healthy diet without having a harmful effect on blood glucose control. However, you should still try to cut down on sugary foods and drinks since eating them has implications for tooth decay, weight control and the overall balance of your diet.

Blood glucose control depends on diabetes medication and lifestyle factors, such as how much activity you do as well as what you eat.

As we are all different in terms of our nutritional needs, the limits are different too. Lots of foods contain sugar – natural or added – and it is the overall food choices you make, rather than just one food, that will determine whether you are eating a healthy diet.

Q: When I was first diagnosed I was told I could only have two egg-sized potatoes at my main meal. Is this still true?

A: Starchy foods like potatoes, bread, cereals, rice and pasta should be the basis of all your meals. This is because these foods help you to keep your blood glucose levels steady. Try and choose wholemeal or wholewheat varieties where possible. Everyone with diabetes has individual dietary requirements, which is why it is important to get specific advice from a local dietitian. He or she will guide you on the amounts of different foods you should eat.

Q: Which fruits contain the most sugar?

A: People with diabetes can eat any kind of fruit, regardless of the sugar content. Everyone is encouraged to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Spreading the fruit you eat through the day will avoid a sudden rise in blood glucose levels. Although some fruits have a lower glycaemic index, which shows how foods affect blood glucose levels, the important thing is to increase the amount of fruit you eat, including a wide variety of different fruits.

Q: Is it true that I shouldn’t eat bananas or grapes?

A: No. All fruit and vegetables are extremely good for you. They are high in fibre, low in fat and packed with vitamins and minerals. Research has shown that eating more can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, some cancers and some gut problems. You should aim to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables per day: for example, three portions of fruit and two portions of vegetables or vice versa. Eating more fruit and vegetables also helps to improve the overall balance of the diet. Fruit is the perfect snack.

One Portion of Fruit/Vegetables =
• one medium- sized fresh fruit (apple, pear, banana, etc)
• two small fruits (apricots, plums, kiwi fruit, etc)
• a cupful of berries or very small fruit (grapes, raspberries, etc)
• a bowlful of salad
• a large slice of a large fruit (melon, pineapple, etc)
• three serving spoons of tinned or stewed fruit
• half a serving spoon of dried fruit
• a small glass of unsweetened fruit juice
• three serving spoons of a small vegetable (sweetcorn, peas, etc)
• two serving spoons of green or root vegetables or pulses (beans, carrots, etc)