| Abstract: |
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce any or enough insulin, or is not able to use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that combines with glucose (sugar) in the blood and helps the glucose to enter the body's cells to be used for energy. This booklet reviews the basic care of people with diabetes, then focuses on shopping and meal planning as one aspect of diabetes management. Topics include the three major types of diabetes (type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes), the diabetes food guide pyramid, sample meal plans at 4 calorie levels, how to recognize portion sizes and choose proportionally by food group, how to control carbohydrate intake, the use of sugar substitutes, nutrition facts labels on food, shopping hints, and the importance of incorporating physical activity (exercise) into a regular program of diabetes management. The booklet is illustrated with colorful photographs and charts. A resource list of organizations, books, and magazines, concludes the booklet. 18 figures. 4 tables. |