What are the benefits of a vegetarian diet for people with diabetes?

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  1. American Diabetes Association
     
    A vegetarian diet is a healthy option, even if you have diabetes. Research supports that following this type of diet can help prevent and manage diabetes. In fact, research on vegan diets has found that carb and calorie restrictions were not necessary and still promoted weight loss and lowered participants' A1C.

    Vegetarian diets are naturally higher in fiber, much lower in saturated fat, and cholesterol-free when compared to a traditional American diet. The high fiber in this diet may help you feel full for a longer time after eating and may help you eat less over all. When fiber intake is greater than 50 grams per day on a vegan diet, it may help lower blood glucose levels.

    This diet also tends to cost less. Meat, poultry, and fish are usually the most expensive foods we eat.
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    A vegetarian diet is a healthy option, even if you have diabetes. Research supports that following this type of diet can help prevent and manage diabetes. In fact, research on vegan diets has found that carb and calorie restrictions were not... More
  2.  Laura Russell
     
    Laura Russell answered:

    Make sure if you decide to follow a vegetarian diet that the basis of your diet is vegetables and plant based foods. Many people just cut out meat and replace this with more carbs form breads, cereal, chips, crackers, french fries. This will likely not help with diabetes. Choose whole grains that also provide fiber and protein such as quinoa, lentils, beans, brown rice, flax, chia, etc. The focus of the meal should be on vegetables, so plan ahead to have an adequate supply ready for meals. Use fruits for snacks and choose low fat milk and yogurt for additional protein and nutrition at meals or for snacks. 

    More Related Answers from Laura Russell
    Make sure if you decide to follow a vegetarian diet that the basis of your diet is vegetables and plant based foods. Many people just cut out meat and replace this with more carbs form breads, cereal, chips, crackers, french fries. This will likely... More