By: Adia Aponte, MPHE, CHES in collaboration with Nitza Pérez, RDN, both from Triple-S
When discussing diabetes, nutrition is always present, as it is critical in achieving control of the condition. In an era were finding information through a “click” is so easy, you must go on to health professionals to understand better everything you are reading. An example is the “trending diets,” in which the consumption of many foods is limited and not sustainable in the long term. In addition, when walking through the supermarket, you can see many products labeled “fat-free” or “gluten-free,” but what does this mean?
A food is classified as “fat-free” when all-natural fat has been removed or has never had any fat, but this does not mean it is calorie or carbohydrate-free. However, eating the right types of fat is important to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and other health problems. Four main types of fats can be found: saturated (coconut oil, bacon, butter, among others), trans (cookies, cookies, fried foods, among others), monounsaturated (walnuts, avocado, olive oil, among others), and polyunsaturated (corn oil, salmon, white tuna, among others); it is recommended to include more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats than saturated or trans.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. As foods classified as “gluten-free” do not contain this protein, it does not influence blood sugar values. This means that foods with or without gluten-containing carbohydrates will have the same impact on blood glucose. So, if you do not suffer from a digestive disorder or experience any problems when consuming gluten, there is no reason to avoid it.
It should be emphasized that, even if the product contains these seals, it does not ensure that it is healthy or ideal to incorporate in the diet plan, as they may have high sugars and carbohydrates. It is important to always look at the label and the nutritional value of that food and be clear about the appropriate portions according to the dietary needs. In order to understand more about label reading and the ideal eating plan according to the health conditions that may be present, it is recommended to visit a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Eat delicious and healthy regardless of “trending diets!”
