Are Oats and Unsweetened Soy Milk Safe for Diabetics?

Are oats and unsweetened soy milk suitable for diabetic patients?

Dear Nutritionist,
My father currently has diabetes, and his glycated hemoglobin level is above 7.
I would like to know if it is suitable for him to frequently consume oatmeal soaked in unsweetened soy milk.
Thank you!

Hai Zi Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/05

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello! For diabetes patients, the most important aspect is the total carbohydrate intake throughout the day, so it's not strictly necessary to avoid certain foods or only eat specific ones.
Oatmeal with unsweetened soy milk contains carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, and can be a good food choice if consumed in appropriate portions; however, excessive portions can lead to elevated blood sugar levels.
It is recommended to consult a nutritionist to review your daily diet and blood test results in order to plan a personalized meal plan.
Wishing you health and well-being.
This message is from Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen at Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/03/05

More Info

When considering the dietary needs of individuals with diabetes, it's essential to focus on foods that have a low glycemic index (GI), provide essential nutrients, and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Oats and unsweetened soy milk can be beneficial components of a diabetic-friendly diet, but there are important factors to consider.

Oats: Oats are a whole grain that is rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan. This type of fiber has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and improve glycemic control. The soluble fiber in oats can slow down digestion and the absorption of carbohydrates, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. However, it's important to choose whole oats, such as steel-cut or rolled oats, rather than instant oats, which may have added sugars and a higher glycemic index. A typical serving size of oats is about 1/2 cup dry, which can be cooked to yield a satisfying portion.
For individuals with diabetes, portion control is crucial. While oats are healthy, consuming large quantities can still lead to increased blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is advisable for your father to monitor his blood sugar response after consuming oats and adjust portion sizes accordingly.

Unsweetened Soy Milk: Unsweetened soy milk is a great alternative to dairy milk for those with diabetes. It is low in carbohydrates and does not contain added sugars, making it a suitable choice for managing blood sugar levels. Additionally, soy milk is a good source of protein and contains healthy fats, which can contribute to satiety and help regulate blood sugar levels. When choosing soy milk, it is essential to select varieties that are labeled "unsweetened" to avoid unnecessary sugar intake.

Combining oats with unsweetened soy milk can create a nutritious meal or snack that is high in fiber and protein, both of which are beneficial for blood sugar management. This combination can also provide a good balance of macronutrients, helping to keep your father feeling full and satisfied.

Recommendations:
1. Portion Control: Encourage your father to start with small portions of oats (about 1/2 cup cooked) and monitor his blood sugar levels to see how his body responds.
2. Pairing with Protein: Consider adding nuts, seeds, or a scoop of protein powder to the oats to enhance the protein content, which can further help stabilize blood sugar levels.

3. Monitoring: It is crucial for your father to regularly check his blood sugar levels, especially after introducing new foods into his diet. This will help him understand how different foods affect his glucose levels.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: It’s always a good idea for individuals with diabetes to work closely with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to create a personalized meal plan that meets their specific needs.

In conclusion, oats and unsweetened soy milk can be safe and nutritious options for your father, provided that he consumes them in moderation and monitors his blood sugar levels. A balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, along with regular physical activity, can significantly contribute to better diabetes management.

Similar Q&A

Can Diabetics and Gout Patients Drink Tea and Coffee?

Nutritionist: Can patients with diabetes or high uric acid levels drink black tea, green tea, milk tea, oolong tea, coffee, milk, flavored milk? Thank you.

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
For diabetic patients, it is advisable to avoid sugary beverages such as sweetened black tea, green tea, milk tea, oolong tea, and coffee. If these beverages are unsweetened, they can be consumed. Regarding milk, due to its caloric content, it is recommended to limit intake to 1-...

Best Milk Alternatives for Diabetics: What You Need to Know

Hello, can diabetic patients use other types of milk powder besides commercially available specialized diabetic milk powder? For example, can they use sesame multi-grain milk or whole milk powder?

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Hello! A diabetes diet is one that requires calorie control while maintaining nutritional balance, and there is no need to use commercially available specialized diabetic milk powder. It is generally recommended to consume 1 cup (240 cc) of low-fat or skim milk daily. As for sesa...

Does Unsweetened Soy Milk Have Calories? A Nutritional Insight

Hello, does unsweetened soy milk still contain calories? I make my own unsweetened soy milk because I feel safe about it, and it has no added sugar at all!

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Unsweetened soy milk also contains calories—one cup (240cc) has 75 calories. Soy milk is a great source of plant-based protein, and if it is unfiltered, it is also high in fiber! It is a very healthy food, but individuals with impaired kidney function or those with gout sh...

Managing Diabetes: Dietary Tips for Seniors with High Blood Sugar

Hello Doctor, my grandmother is 148 cm tall and weighs 31 kg. She follows a lacto-vegetarian diet and has diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, with blood sugar levels around 120-140 mg/dL. She takes oral medications for blood sugar and blood pressure in the morning, and sh...

Dr. Li Jian reply Internal Medicine
The dietary principles for diabetes focus on a balanced diet, emphasizing the intake of foods rich in dietary fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is important to avoid refined carbohydrate foods, such as sugar, desserts, fruit juices, honey, and sugary beverag...