Saipan Nutrition: Can diabetics eat sweet fruits like mangoes?

It is a common myth that diabetics should not eat certain foods because they are too sweet. Diabetics and pre-diabetics should be concerned about the total number of carbohydrates per serving, and not about whether it is a sugar or a starch. One serving of fruit should contain 15 grams of carbohydrates, and the size of the serving should vary depending on the amount of carbohydrates in the fruit. Whether the fruit is low-carb or high-carb, as long as you eating the same 15 grams of carbohydrates, the effect on blood sugar is the same.

Some examples of serving size of 15 grams of fruit:

1/2 medium banana
1/2 cup (83 grams) cubed mango
1 1/4 cup (190 grams) cubed watermelon
1 1/4 cup (180 grams) whole strawberries
3/4 cup (124 grams) cubed pineapple

In addition to counting carbohydrate intake and reducing serving size, diabetics should be concerned about eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and WHOLE GRAINS, and reducing intake of saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol.

If you are currently "homebound" or having difficulty getting around the house, and are having trouble controlling your diabetes, there are many options available. Many services are available to Medicare and private insured patients. Coverage may even be available for diabetic footwear at no cost. If you are suffering from diabetes, talk to your doctor about a Home Health Care Referral.
MAYO CLINIC ARTICLE ON EATING SWEET FRUITS SUCH AS MANGOES

Saipan Nutrition: 5+ Servings of White Rice Per Week Can Increase Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Researchers from the Harvard University's School of Public Health released a study on the effects of rice. The study states that eating over 5 servings of rice each week can lead to a substantial increase in the risk of type 2 diabetes. Replacing just one serving with brown rice can lead to a reduction in the risk. Rice is an important part of many people’s diets on the Islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota. Here in the CNMI, diabetes is a major health issue, effecting most of the population young and old alike.

The report states that the outer parts of brown rice slow down the work of the body’s digestive enzymes into starch. This means that the release of sugar into the bloodstream is slower after eating brown rice compared to white rice. A diet of foods that quickly release sugar into the bloodstream has been linked with a greater risk of type two diabetes. The exact reason for this is not known.

If you are currently having trouble managing chronic diabetes and you are generally confined to your home, Pacific Home Health Care, LLC. is available to monitor, evaluate and provide diabetes education. Please give us a call today for more information at 670-234-CARE (2273)