Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially if you’re diabetic. The kind of food you eat and the amount you consume play a crucial role in managing your blood sugar levels.
In general, most people have a slightly increased blood sugar level in the morning, which may be more significant for some people with diabetes. One of the most common reasons is the dawn phenomenon, which refers to hyperglycemic periods that occur during the early morning hours, specifically between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. In such circumstances, skipping breakfast may seem like a good idea, but that’s not the case. According to StatsPearls Publishing, consuming breakfast or an early morning meal actually helps decrease the secretion of insulin-antagonistic hormones, such as glucagon, which spikes blood sugar levels.
However, there are a few things to consider and certain mistakes to avoid during breakfast for diabetes patients.
Also Read: What Does An Ideal Breakfast Look Like For Diabetics: Foods To Eat And Avoid
Not Adding Enough Proteins To Your Diet
Many of the high-protein sources also contain carbohydrates and fats, which are usually considered harmful for diabetes patients. But according to Dr Satyam Chakraborty, Consultant Endocrinologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, skipping protein-rich foods completely may not be the right way to manage blood sugar levels. Protein is a building block of life, which helps repair tissues, build muscles, and support a healthy weight management plan. The doctor shared that it does not get converted in the body as glucose, but carbohydrates do, which is why the key is to choose healthy protein-rich foods, such as lean meat, fish, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds, which are low in refined carbs.
Avoiding Carbohydrates Completely![]()
A study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research found that high-carbohydrate diets are linked to a higher risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome, especially in Asian-Indians who already have obesity.
But researchers also noted that it is not just the amount of carbs that influences blood sugar levels, but also the quality that matters too.
Dr Chakraborty said, "After an overnight fast, the breakfast should consist of carbohydrates, preferably complex carbohydrates like unpolished wheat, oats, and barley, which help in the slow release of carbohydrates to help in maintaining the blood sugar level."
On the contrary, puffed and flat rice gives quick release of carbohydrates, which can be harmful for diabetes patients as it initiates a spike in the blood sugar level, added the doctor, particularly warning those on insulin medication.
Also Read: How Long Does Prediabetes Take To Progress To Diabetes: Lifestyle Changes That Can Reduce Risk
Having Fruit Juices Instead Of Whole Fruits
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Rajkumar, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, said, "People with diabetes should approach fruit juices cautiously due to their concentrated sugar content."
He added, "Whole fruits are preferable, as their fibre content helps regulate blood sugar levels."
If consuming juice, the doctor further recommended choosing options with no added sugars and diluting it with water.
A Final Word
Skipping breakfast is not an option for people with diabetes. In fact, a study published in the Journal Nutrition and Metabolism found a strong link between irregular breakfast consumption and an increased risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and obesity-related complications. Therefore, the key is to make the right food choices, include healthy proteins, carbs, and fats, and regulate the portions.
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