Eating out and diabetes

Some people think that having diabetes means that you can’t eat out at restaurants – but this is not true. The idea that diabetics have to have a ‘special’ diabetic diet or ‘special’ food is not true: diabetics can enjoy the same food as everyone else, they just have to be careful to control their blood sugars and not have a bad impact on their health .
Diabetic people need to make sure that food they eat is nutritionally balanced, because food choices greatly affect blood glucose levels. The priorities for diabetics are to balance blood glucose levels, achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and enjoy their lifestyle .
When eating out, it is important to make healthy choices. These could include:
– Asking for sauces, butter, dressing or side-dishes to be kept separate. That way, the patient can keep control of what is eaten. Restaurants with flexible menus are also important. Some diabetics prefer to eat a small snack before leaving to make sure they don’t over-order food. Diabetics need to be aware of extra fat in appetisers, entrees and desserts – not to say these should be avoided – it is just necessary to be aware.
Eating out healthily takes a bit of work and effort, but it is by no means impossible. Being prepared and aware means that diabetic people can enjoy restaurants to the fullest.