Tag Archives: #diabetes

March 24 is Diabetes Alert Day. Can a Diabetic be Vegetarian/Vegan?

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Tuesday, March 24 is Diabetes Alert Day, a one-day wake-up call to inform the American public about the seriousness of diabetes, particularly when diabetes is left undiagnosed or untreated. Often times, diabetics wonder if they can be a vegetarian or vegan? The answer is yes, it  is possible.

There are many different types of vegetarian diets. The most common types are:

  • Vegan- This group does not eat meat, eggs, or dairy products.
  • Lacto-vegetarian- This group does not eat meat or eggs. However, they will eat dairy products.
  • Lacto-ovo vegetarian- This group does not eat any meat. However, they will eat both dairy products and eggs.

If diabetics decide to become vegetarian or vegan, their diets should be rich in protein, iron, vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D.  Eating a good mix of vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, and low-fat dairy products guarantee the body receives the vitamins and proper fuel required to normally function.  As a vegetarian or vegan, this kind of diet should not solely concentrate on simple carbohydrates rich in starches, such as potatoes, white rice and white bread or even fruits, which can have the opposite effect on blood sugar levels for diabetics.  A focus on a well-rounded diet can help to improve blood sugar levels and make the body more responsive to insulin.  It can also help with weight management which can be a concern to many diabetics.

The key to a healthy vegetarian/vegan diet as a diabetic is balance and planning.  Every person who has diabetes has his, or her, own individual energy and nutrient needs. Anyone interested in changing their dietary lifestyle should consult with their health care professional.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Diabetic? Blurry Vision? Make Sure to Schedule an Exam

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Blurry vision may happen for a variety of reasons, but for some it can be a precursor to something more serious. According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 20 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes, while an additional 41 million are considered pre-diabetic, a condition that significantly increases their risk for developing diabetes.

Eye issues are the first early warning signs of problems for people with diabetes. In pre-diabetics, blurred vision occurs because the blood sugar levels are elevated, causing the lens of the eye to swell. By maintaining a healthy blood sugar level, vision symptoms can resolve within a matter of months. It is important to make certain lifestyle changes in order to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Managing your diet, exercising daily and maintaining a normal weight can help prevent the development of diabetes and avoid problems associated with being pre-diabetics.

Everyone should have regular eye exams, but if you are pre-diabetic or diabetic, it is important to have your eyes examined annually. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486 or All City Eye Care Center at 718-380-5070.

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.