Invisible Threat
Since diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder, her body will be unable to utilise any kind of carbohydrates, like rice and potatoes. This disorder is primarily due to a deficiency of the hormone insulin. Diabetes is often connected to heart diseases.
So, it is possible that if your parent has diabetes, she could also develop a heart problem. This is because of the increased cholesterol in her body system.
One of the most commonly observed heart diseases among uncontrolled diabetics is called Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). This can cause life threatening heart attacks because of the increased blood clotting in the heart.
Eat to Beat
One of the best ways to keep heart diseases at bay is a good healthy diet.
If your parent needs to attain (in terms of weight loss or gain!) a specific weight bracket, then make sure you give her an adequate calorific intake. Just make sure the level of carbohydrate and fat is minimal. Usually, 15-20 percent of total calories are the recommended value you can serve.
However, remember that the quality and the type of fat could also influence the increase in risk of heart diseases. Saturated fatty acids like coconut oil, butter etc. are increase the cholesterol level and therefore should be taken in restricted amounts.
Monounsaturated fatty acids like groundnut, palm and olive oil lowers the total cholesterol.
Omega 3 fatty acids (PUFA) found in fish helps reduce platelet responsiveness and bring about favourable changes in blood pressure.
Make sure you completely avoid foods like egg yolks and organic meats, which are high in cholesterol.
The presence of fibre in carbohydrates like grains and vegetables increases intestinal transit time, delays gastric emptying, slows glucose absorption and also helps in lowering cholesterol levels.
- Garlic has beneficial effects on coagulation, platelet aggregation, vaso-dilation and blood lipid concentrations.
- Fenugreek seeds are also beneficial to diabetics as well as heart patients, as they are rich in fibre, which reduces blood sugar levels.
- Flax seeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that help to lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Fish oils can also help as it is rich in omega 3 fatty acids which could be beneficial for diabetics and cardiac patients.
Cook More Healthily
- Slim down your meals by using methods such as boiling, grilling, and baking instead of frying.
- Grilling intensifies flavours because the high heat of the grill concentrates the food's tastes.
- Baking at high heat creates results similar to deep-frying, but without nearly as much fat.
Author: Payal Ahuja
(Payal is a Registered Dietician at Health Education and Lifestyle Management (HEAL))
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