Diabetes Part 3

The one thing that Biomed and TCM practitioners agree on is how important one’s diet and lifestyle is in preventing or treating diabetes. Regardless of test outcomes or diagnostic patterns, the core to anyone’s wellbeing is what he eats, thinks and “does” in life. I have had my best conversations with Biomed clinicians regarding changing the diet and lifestyle of a shared patient.

Most diabetic patients are surprised by how unhealthy their eating habits are when properly assessed. Common reactions are: “I didn’t realize I ate rice that much” or “I didn’t realize eating too much luncheon meats were bad for you”. The American diet has now turned into a haven for carbohydrates and bad fats. Fast food and sugary drinks are primary forms of caloric intake for too many Americans.

During my intake, I ask the patient for complete details on his daily eating habits. Such details include what foods he eats, the times he eats, what he snacks on and what he drinks, among others. You’ll be surprised how important his answers are in not only giving me the proper perspective but in, also, aiding me in diagnosing properly.

Once treatment sessions begin, I’ll first educate the patient on what changes he needs to make regarding his diet and then keep up with him. Very often, a patient will make the initial effort to make the necessary changes but not follow through. He, essentially, reverts back to his old eating ways. I will always discuss my diet advice with the patient’s Biomed doctor.

I most often advice a patient to incorporate more leans meats such as baked chicken or fish in his diet. Also, incorporate more vegetables, especially green, leafy vegetables. I ask them to drink more water, distilled if possible, and less sodas, beer and wine. Even these few changes will help balance a diabetic’s sugar levels and he will look and feel more fit.