A diabetes expert shares some advice.
It is absolutely possible to manage diabetes effectively on a vegetarian diet. Remember, though, that vegetarian diets are not automatically low calorie, and you’ll want to manage carbohydrates carefully — it’s easy to eat a lot of carbs when you’re eating meat-free. Nutritious, non-starchy vegetables such as cucumbers, green beans and leafy greens are perfect for satisfying your appetite without adding much carbohydrate.
If you choose to eat vegan (meaning no animal products at all, including eggs and dairy), you won’t get the high-quality protein that eggs, milk, yogurt and cheese offer. Instead, try soy (edamame, tofu, tempeh), beans, a variety of nuts and seeds, and quinoa. Inadequate vitamin B12 is the most serious concern for vegans, since it doesn’t occur naturally in plants. Take a supplement, or be sure you get adequate vitamin B12 from fortified foods. A calcium and vitamin D supplement may be a good idea, too.
Published on March 18, 2015.
— Advice by Toby Smithson, MS, RDN, LDN, CDE. Toby is a registered and licensed dietitian and certified diabetes educator. She holds a master’s of science in nutrition and wellness and is the co-author of Diabetes Meal Planning and Nutrition for Dummies.
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