Are Starchy Liquid Foods Suitable for Diabetics?

Q: Are Starchy Liquid Foods Suitable for Diabetics?

Dear Mr. <br>Wan Hsiu-Ming：<br>1. <br>Regarding your questions about dietary management for diabetes, it is best to consult with a nutritionist at your mother's hospital. <br>Designing a diet suitable for an elderly person with diabetes, bile duct cancer, and dementia is quite co

Are starchy liquid foods suitable for individuals with diabetes?

Hello, my mother has type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent), bile duct cancer, and dementia, and she has insufficient chewing ability due to missing teeth.
Currently, she is being fed three cans of nutritional supplement (250 calories each) daily.
Since her caloric intake is insufficient, we are planning to prepare a savory porridge by cooking rice with beans, fish, meat, eggs, soft vegetables, and a small amount of oil and salt, then blending it into a liquid form for feeding.
I would like to ask if this starchy liquid food is suitable for a diabetic patient.

Wan Xiuming, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/17

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Mr.
Wan Hsiu-Ming:
1.
Regarding your questions about dietary management for diabetes, it is best to consult with a nutritionist at your mother's hospital.
Designing a diet suitable for an elderly person with diabetes, bile duct cancer, and dementia is quite complex.
2.
The basal metabolic rate for an average person must take into account factors such as age, gender, weight, and any underlying health conditions.
Additionally, one must consider the caloric needs for daily activities in order to estimate the total daily caloric requirement.
At this point, the calories can be distributed among carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in various proportions.
It is also important to consider the intake of water, sodium, fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
3.
Any dietary intake for diabetes must be accompanied by monitoring blood glucose levels and glycated hemoglobin, as well as observing clinical changes to determine its appropriateness.
4.
I recommend that you further discuss these matters with the relevant attending physician and nutritionist.

Reply Date: 2016/10/17

More Info

When considering the dietary needs of a diabetic patient, especially one with additional health concerns such as cholangiocarcinoma and dementia, it is crucial to approach the situation with a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and the specific requirements of diabetes management. Your mother’s case presents unique challenges, particularly due to her limited ability to chew and the necessity for a diet that provides adequate caloric intake while managing blood sugar levels.

Starchy liquid foods, such as the rice porridge you described, can be included in a diabetic diet, but there are several important factors to consider. Starch is a carbohydrate, and carbohydrates have a direct impact on blood glucose levels. When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which can raise blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the quantity and type of starchy foods included in her diet.

1. Portion Control: The key to including starchy foods in a diabetic diet is portion control. The amount of rice and other starchy ingredients in the porridge should be carefully measured to ensure that the total carbohydrate content remains within the recommended limits for her daily intake. For someone with diabetes, it is often advised to limit carbohydrate intake to about 45-60 grams per meal, depending on individual needs and blood sugar control.

2. Glycemic Index: The glycemic index (GI) of foods is another important consideration. Foods with a high GI can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. White rice, for example, has a higher GI compared to whole grains or legumes. If possible, consider using brown rice or incorporating other low-GI ingredients, such as beans or lentils, into the porridge. These options not only provide carbohydrates but also add fiber, which can help slow the absorption of glucose.

3. Balanced Nutrition: In addition to carbohydrates, it is vital to ensure that the porridge is balanced with protein and healthy fats. Including sources of protein, such as fish, eggs, or tofu, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients. Healthy fats, such as a small amount of olive oil or avocado, can also contribute to satiety and overall health.

4. Monitoring Blood Sugar: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential when introducing new foods into a diabetic diet. This will help determine how her body responds to the starchy porridge and allow for adjustments to be made as necessary. It is advisable to check blood sugar levels before and after meals to assess the impact of the food consumed.

5. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Given your mother’s complex medical history, it is highly recommended to work closely with a registered dietitian or a healthcare provider specializing in diabetes management. They can provide personalized dietary recommendations that take into account her specific health conditions, caloric needs, and preferences.

In summary, while starchy liquid foods like rice porridge can be included in the diet of a diabetic patient, careful consideration of portion sizes, glycemic index, and overall nutritional balance is crucial. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and consultation with healthcare professionals will help ensure that her dietary choices support her health and well-being.

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