The Great Week and the Easter They are important times for the Orthodox Church, with rich traditions and customs.
For people with diabetes mellitus, maintaining healthy eating during Easter is extremely important as fasting and the Easter table hide several nutritional risks.
Dr. Andreas Melidonis, Coordinating Director of Diabetic-Cardiomem Center Metropolitan Hospital and Mr. Karolos Papalazarou, Clinical Dietitian-Nutritionist, Associate of Metropolitan Hospital, draw attention and report what should be given.
Management of starch foods
- Careful consumption: Although fasting can lead to increased consumption of starchy foods (pasta, potatoes, bread), people with diabetes should consume them in moderation.
- Combinations of meals: It is recommended to consume small amounts of starch foods along with sources of protein and fiber, such as vegetables, to better regulate sugar levels.
Alternative sources of protein
- Legumes and vegetables: Include legumes and protein -rich vegetables in your diet, such as mushrooms.
- Seafood: Consume seafood such as squid, cuttlefish and shrimp with care, due to their high cholesterol content.
- Dairy substitutes: Select products such as milk and soy yogurt for protein intake.
Monitoring blood sugar levels
- Frequent measurements: Change in meals and physical activity can affect sugar levels. It is important to regularly measure your blood sugar levels and do not miss your medication.
Intermediate meals
- Snack: Eating small, balanced snacks, such as a portion of a few nuts, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Easter
- Without restriction in the selection of food but in quantity. Enjoy the Easter meal in moderation, emphasizing protein sources and accompanying plenty of salad.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption must be limited. It is recommended up to 2 units of alcohol during the meal (ie two small glasses of wine).
- Sweetness: Enjoy a small amount of sweet or choose sweets with sugar substitutes, such as stevia, and consume them in moderation and time away from the main meal.
Physical activity
- Exercise: A mild walk after a large meal such as the Easter table can help digest and regulate blood sugar levels.
“The Holy Week and Easter can be safely celebrated by people with diabetes mellitus, as long as the above nutritional recommendations are followed and maintain balance in the diet. Collaboration with your treating physician or dietician is always a recommendation to personalize the instructions, ”the experts conclude.