Brief Answer:
Absolutely important. Good question.

Detailed Answer:
Hello there. Thanks for writing to HCM. I am Dr Praveen and I will be answering you today. Read your query and noted the contents.

Diet, exercise and education about diabetes is so vital. Medications also constitute an important part. Your present A1c is good. However, since you have opted to manage diabetes with a lifestyle change alone you may continue to do so. Please monitor your fasting and post prandial blood glucose levels every month and your Hba1c every 3 months. Keep it all within range and preferably in the non diabetic range. That is a stiff target but one worth achieving.

Your BMI is well in the normal range (21.94) and your diet advise is based on your present weight and your activity level. I will be explaining the diet for a person with normal weight and an average activity level. You can easily consume a 2000 kcal diet out of which 60% are carbohydrates, 25% fat and 15% protein.

Some basic principles. Do not starve to control diabetes. Eat small frequent meals. Avoid refined sugar. Do not consume canned beverages. Take fried foods in extreme moderation. Keep your salt intake normal (no heavily salted foods). Take fruits and veggies. Let your diet be complete. Avoid juices. A fruit is better when taken whole. You may incorporate paneer in your diet - better option would be tofu though. Dairy products can be taken but take it sparingly. Rice - better go for red rice. Wheat - is good. But both has carbs. So take pulses and veggies well when you have rice / wheat. Take salads in plenty.

Remember a diabetic diet is not a tasteless bland diet. Its actually the right way to eat. The diabetic way of live is not a doomed one but one that is healthy in all its aspects.

If you have any more doubts I will be happy to answer.Take care.
Regards.
Dr Praveen

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