Adapting to change

Treatment - Type 1

Type 1 diabetes is not easy to regulate and control however taking steps to healthier eating and lifestyle changes is a great start.
You will require a new routine of a calculated diet, physical activity planning and blood glucose monitoring along with multiple daily injections.
Unfortunately you cannot reverse the effects of type 1 diabetes, you will need to learn and monitor your food intake, physical activity output and general well-being regularly with help of a blood glucose monitor. Using a blood glucose monitor will enable you to gage how certain foods, activities and even stress, affect your blood glucose readings.

Treatment - Type 2

Diet

Adapting to a whole new way of eating is something that is going to take some getting used too, especially if you have never had to be food conscious previously. Once you have been diagnosed your G.P will be able to refer you to a dietician or specialist diabetic nurse to help you with the transition of carb counting and reducing sugars within your diet.
Reading labels and being food aware is vital for managing your diabetes and gauging your insulin requirements... This will keep your average blood glucose reading within a healthy range and prevent further damage to your body.
No food is 'Banned' when you’re a diabetic, however it is important to make healthier food choices as part of your diabetes management. Eating a balanced diet is advisable for all people but more so when you have certain health conditions that will benefit greatly from dietary changes.

There are 5 food groups

Starchy Foods
Carbohydrate based foods such as:

Bread
Rice
Pasta
Potatoes

Opting for lower GI foods that are slower to be absorbed into the body are ideal as they do not affect the blood glucose levels as much and keep you feeling fuller for longer. High fibre options such as wholemeal or wholegrain are also advised as they will keep your bowel moving regularly and help to prevent digestive disorders. Starchy foods should make up roughly 1/3 of your daily diet.

Fruit and Veg

Naturally low in fat and calories and yet full of essential vitamins, minerals and fibre, fruit and vegetables are a great prevention against heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure and certain cancers. It is generally advised that you eat 5 portions of different fruit and/or Vegetables a day. (A portion is roughly 1 hand full).

Dairy Products

Cheese, milk, yoghurt and cream all contain calcium this helps bone and teeth stay strong and healthy. They also contain a good source of protein, however Dairy products can be high in fat so you will need to be aware of buying low in fat products but remember to read the label carefully as a reduction in fat can mean there is a lot of sugar in replacement! Your recommended daily portion of dairy should be equal to 1/3 glass of milk, 1oz cheese and a small yogurt.

Meat, fish, egg and pulses.

Food rich in protein, these foods help to build and replace muscle cells within the body, also they contain minerals, such as iron (helping to produce red blood cells), omega 3 oils (omega 3 rich food such as mackerel, salmon and sardines are great for the heart). If you are Vegan or Vegetarian you can get your protein from such foods as beans, lentils, pulses, soya and tofu.

Foods containing high fats and sugar.

Type 1 diabetics do not need food in this group, however eating them in moderation as part of your balanced diet is fine. Food and drink high in sugar will increase your blood glucose levels and it is advised that you opt for a low sugar, low calorie or diet version where available. When cooking try and use low fat sauces and oils to reduce the amount of fat included in your diet.

*Salt in your diet can raise your blood pressure which can add to the chances of heart disease or a stroke. Limiting the amount of processed foods, seasoning and table salt and opting to flavour naturally with herbs and spices is a healthier option.

A brief run down to a healthier diet:

Cut down on sugar.
Eat regular meals.
Include slow releasing carbohydrates in moderation.
Cut down on the amount of fat you consume.
Attempt to eat your 5 a day.
Add beans, lentils and pulses to your diet where possible.
Eat more fish.
Reduce you salt intake.
Reduce or limit you alcohol consumption.