Why do diabetics cut out sweets yet when weak or light-headed they eat hard candy?

Why do diabetics have to cut out all sweets, yet when they feel weak or light-headed, they put a piece of hard candy in their mouths? Is it supposed to be sugar-free candy? No. People with diabetes can eat regular sugar containing hard candy when they feel low blood glucose symptoms. A quick dissolving and...

Couldn’t my husband just cut out sugar and sweets instead of following exchanges?

My husband was just diagnosed as having diabetes. He's not taking any shots or pills. His doctor suggested we see a registered dietitian to get a diet. The hospital dietitian gave him a book called "Exchange List" and explained it. The list is pretty complicated and so different from the way we eat. Couldn't...

What is the relationship between insulin, sugar and refined grains?

I am an ACSM and ACE Certified Personal Trainer. I've been in the business for about 10 years now and one of my missions has always been to help dispel the fads and myths about health and fitness. I have been reading your FAQs for some time now and would like to thank you...

Can a person with diabetes drink alcohol?

We are updating our information on diet and have the following information on our web page. We would very much appreciate your reviewing this information for accuracy. We would also like to add a link from our site to yours. Beverages containing alcohol are converted into fat and are high in calories. People with diabetes...

My husband is hypoglycemic, has hyper-acidity and intolerance to lactose in milk.

My husband is hypoglycemic, has hyperacidity and intolerance to lactose in milk. What type of eating program will give him the necessary daily nutrients? The diet your husband should follow is a high protein, low carbohydrate, and bland, lactose-free diet in six small feedings. Your husband needs help in putting this all together. He should...

A dieter asked my impressions of the Richard Simmon’s Deal-A-Meal program.

I love your website and think you're doing a great service for the dietetics profession. I am also a registered dietitian with a Masters in Health Science. I work at a 600-bed hospital in a major southeastern city. My clinical emphasis for the last four years has been in nutrition support. Here's my question: a...

My son is a diabetic. What should I serve at his birthday party?

My son's birthday is next week. The problem is he is a diabetic. I've carefully watched his diet the last six months since we found out. What should I serve at his birthday party? He knows he can't have cake. Start making plans for a traditional birthday party with cake for your son. A person...

I had trouble on a low calorie diet and felt hungry.

Thanks so much for your prompt and detailed response regarding my question about a low carbohydrate diet. I very much appreciate your professional opinion because I don't want to do anything harmful. Just so you know, when I said I "had trouble" with a low-calorie diet, I simply meant I had trouble staying on...