The Deal on Diabetes

The Deal on Diabetes
Last winter, Elizabeth Qualben went to her doctor for a checkup. Two months later, the 43 year old administrative consultant was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.


Elizabeth is one of 21 million Americans with diabetes, a number expected to increase dramatically as baby boomers hit their mid-40s and 50s, when Type 2 diabetes (the most common type of diabetes) tends to strike. Both Type 1 and 2 diabetes are serious conditions. The good news is that diabetes can be controlled by eating well and being active (plus taking any prescribed medication). Today, people with diabetes can live long, happy lives.


You can still eat well and enjoy great tasting foods! Beyond managing carbohydrates in the diet (including sugars), it is important to maintain a healthy weight,

Who’s At Risk?
One-third of the 16 million Americans who have diabetes don’t know they have it. Here are the common risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.

Over 45 years of age

Overweight

Little or no daily exercise

Family history of diabetes

African American, Latino, Asian American or Pacific Islander heritage

Fair Exchange
Exchanges are a guide to food choices for people who follow a meal-planning program for diabetes or weight management. Exchange information is found on many Kraft Kitchens recipes and on the packages of many Kraft Foods products. For online information about diabetes, visit the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org or the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org

Top Tips


always follow your meal plan developed with a registered dietitian

don’t skip breakfast! Include nutrient- rich morning favorites like POST Shredded Wheat Cereal

choose most of your carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables and grains

choose lower fat or fat free dairy foods like milk, yogurt and cheese which contain valuable nutrients like calcium. Check total carbohydrate content on the Nutrition Facts label and count this into your meal plan

although table sugar and other sweeteners are now acceptable as part of a diabetes meal plan, sugar free foods and beverages like Sugar Free JELL-O Gelatin, CRYSTAL LIGHT Drink Mix and KOOL AID Soft Drink Mix can be great choices

craving chocolate? Try making JELL-O Sugar Free Fat Free Instant Pudding topped with COOL WHIP LITE

snack on TRISCUIT Snack Crackers, WHEAT THINS Low Sodium Crackers, microwave light popcorn and pretzels. Remember to check portion sizes and count the total carbohydrates into your daily meal plan