
February 3, 2005
Meal Planning, Food and Diet
Question from Nairobi, Kenya:
What foods should or should not be eaten? It is not clear what type of diabetes the child has.
Answer:
I would advise that you speak with the physician who made the diagnosis for a referral to a nutritional expert (registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator). This person can individualize a meal plan that will help this child with blood sugar control. All fruit, even grapes, have sugar in them, but should not be avoided altogether just because of the sugar in them. Small portions of carbohydrate containing foods (starches, fruits, milk, sweets) are allowed into a diabetes meal plan nowadays as long as they are balanced with protein and healthier fat options. Please try to contact a dietitian or a certified diabetes educator (CDE) who can assist with meal planning and some initial education.
JMS