Eating to Manage Type 2 Diabetes: Diabetes and Carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates are always a hot topic when it comes to managing diabetes through diet. Should we be recommending no carb, low carb, carb counting, complex carbs? With diabetes self-management there is no one right way, rather it should be individualised to each and every diabetic.

So what are the main dietary sources of carbohydrates?

I often hear the words ‘I think it’s my metabolism’ or ‘I just have a slow metabolism, there is nothing I can do’ – sound familiar to you?

You may have found that diets used to work for you although gradually over a period of time it is getting harder and harder to lose or maintain your weight. You possibly have put it down to a slow metabolism and virtually given up.

I am here to tell you there are ways to increase your metabolism and get your body burning maximum kilojoules again. Boosting your metabolism is by no means an easy feat, your results will be achieved through long term commitment and motivation. But trust me it's all worth it in the end.

In my experience dietitians are often the last point of call for advice and support regarding weight loss. When you come to a dietitian for advice and support that’s exactly what you’re going to get. That’s right no weight loss pills, or weight loss shakes, no long list of expensive supplements which promise a quick fix. If there was such a pill or shake, then why would we be living in the heart of an obesity epidemic?

The truth is weight management and weight loss is hard work, in my experience the first step to sustained weight loss is to accept there is no quick fix and overcome self-pity ‘why me – this is so unfair’.

The Panel:

Tim Crowe APD, Associate Professor Deakin University

Christina Turner APD, founder SOL Nutrition Mindul Eating Programs

Kjetil Undhjem Marketing director for chocolate Australia and New Zealand, Mondelez International

The concept of mindfulness is focused on maintaining your health in a long lasting way rather than being on a strict diet.