When it comes to diabetes, diet plays an important role in managing blood sugar levels. While certain foods like sugary drinks, refined flour, and processed foods can lead to blood sugar spikes, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat or low-fat dairy can help keep your blood sugar levels in check. However, in addition to making the right dietary choices, it is also crucial to keep an eye out for the portions as well as the meal timings, as per Dr Sonali Kagne, Consultant Endocrinologist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. Here’s all you need to know about the same.
Also Read: How Diabetes Can Affect Different Parts Of The Body
What Is The Ideal Meal Timing For People With Diabetes?
According to a recent study published in the journal PLOS ONE, researchers found that restricting daily food intake to a shorter window and reducing meal frequency can improve blood sugar control and weight loss in people with diabetes. The study also noted that aligning meal timings with the body's natural rhythm and avoiding late-night snacks could also benefit diabetes patients.
Dr Kagne says, "Irregular eating patterns or frequent snacking can significantly impact the body’s abilities to adjust, posing challenges to glucose regulation."
She adds, "For individuals with diabetes, having two to three balanced meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at regular intervals is ideal."
She advises having breakfast within 1-2 hours of waking up, lunch around midday, and dinner approximately 2-3 hours before bedtime.
In addition, people with diabetes should maintain a high-fibre, high-protein, and low-carb diet, she recommends, adding that those who eat high-carb meals might feel hungry in between major meals, hence urging individuals to eat small, healthy snacks between meals every 4-5 hours to help maintain consistent glucose levels.
Why Is It Important To Space Out The Meals?
According to Dr Kagne, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, particularly for diabetes patients. This is because it kick-starts metabolism and helps maintain energy levels throughout the day, she explains.
While eating at consistent times each day can significantly aid in blood sugar control, it is also crucial to watch how you space out your meals throughout the day. “This approach helps in preventing prolonged periods of fasting, which can lead to hypoglycemia or overeating late,” the doctor says.
Also Read: What Does An Ideal Breakfast Look Like For Diabetics: Foods To Eat And Avoid
Enhancing Effectiveness Of Diabetes Medication
Another benefit diabetes patients can expect from watching their meal timings is enhanced effectiveness of diabetes medications.
"For instance, some medications (alpha glucosidase inhibitors) need to be taken with meals, while others should be taken prior to the meal (sulphonylureas, glinides) to optimise their action and reduce side effects," shares Dr Kagne, adding that it’s essential to follow healthcare provider recommendations regarding meal timing and medication intake.
Conclusion
While healthy dietary choices play a crucial role in diabetes management, it is also important for people with diabetes to follow proper meal frequency and timing and ensure consistency. This can not only help patients maintain healthy blood sugar levels but also manage their overall wellbeing. If you’re in doubt, it is best to consult your healthcare provider for better guidance and management.