The symptoms

There is no ‘special’ diet for people with diabetes. Along with the rest of the population, people with diabetes are advised to eat a healthy, balanced diet low in fat, sugar and salt and with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

The trouble is, many people have different ideas of what a healthy diet really means and how it translates on a day-to-day basis. Can you eat bananas? Are you still allowed a slice of cake? Do you have to say no to wine at a friend’s birthday party? And what do you do if your favourite way of winding down after a long day is with a sugary cup of tea and a biscuit or two?

Dr Sarah Schenker, one of the UK’s leading dieticians, gives her top diabetes diet tips.

Eat plenty of starchy carbohydrates

• Choose carbohydrate foods that have a low glycaemic index (GI). Low GI foods release their energy slowly into the bloodstream and help to keep blood sugar levels more stable.
• Try not to eat too many high GI foods, especially between meals, as these foods can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly.

Have regular meals and snacks

• Eat breakfast. By the morning, your body has been without food for many hours, and blood sugar levels can be low. Eating breakfast, such a bowl of wholegrain cereal or a toasted bagel with peanut butter, boosts your energy levels and sets you up for the day ahead.
• Eat healthy snacks between meals, such as yoghurts, fruit, low-fat cheese and crackers, vegetables sticks with a healthy dip.
• Don't skip meals.

Reduce your intake of unhealthy fats

• Add pulses, beans and lentils as a healthy alternative to meat when making stews, curries or casseroles.
• Choose low-fat dairy products, such as semi-skimmed milk and low-fat yoghurts.
• Always check labels on food, and avoid products that contain hydrogenated fats.
• Avoid fatty meats and meat products. Choose lean cuts of meat and remove visible fat and skin.
• Don't eat fried foods, fast foods and too many pastries, cakes, buns and biscuits.

Keep well hydrated and stick to alcohol guidelines

• Sip water and other healthy drinks throughout the day and carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
• Drink alcohol sensibly.
• Don’t let yourself get dehydrated. By the time you feel thirsty it’s too late; you’re already dehydrated.
• Don't overdo it. People with diabetes should be extra-careful not to binge drink, drink too quickly or drink on an empty stomach. If you do drink regularly, aim to have a few alcohol-free days each week.