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Diabetic food - Russ (17th Jun 2025  20:56:46) We have a diabetic relative coming for the weekend. Tried to get some sugar free supplies in sainsburys no go ask an assistant she said sorry no we don’t have a diabetic section. She her husband was diabetic and she had the same problem. They have gluten free and vegetarian and all that sort of stuff but nothing sugar free. Think sainsburys are missing a trick. Anyone had this problem is there anywhere that sells diabetic products.

Re: Diabetic food - Joe (18th Jun 2025  08:27:33) Simple Russ just buy fresh food - meat and leafy veg has no sugars in them. Buying “ diabetic “ products are a waste of money because they contain chemicals to make them taste better. Also if you google “ sugar free food” a lot will come up. Problem is you might buy a product the person does not like.

Re: Diabetic food - Susie (18th Jun 2025  09:12:51) Russ Specialiity food aimed at diabetes fizzled out a while back because its expensive and not necessary. Try this link, lots of meal ideas suitable for diabetes patient,or anyone looking for healthy meals and snacks. realfood.tesco.com/diabetes-recipes

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (18th Jun 2025  09:53:50) Thanks for the feedback. We have stuff meat and veg we grow are own veg . Just thought we could have a weekend off cooking and relax with our relatives it just seems odd that there is everything under the sun for all tastes and allergies but nothing for diabetics . In this age when we are being told to cut down on sugar it seems odd that there is no sugar free products on sale in supermarkets.

Re: Diabetic food - Susie (18th Jun 2025  10:33:52) Russ There's sugar free products in all supermarkets you only have to read the nutritional values now included on packaging. Eg, drinks with a label "zero", and so on. Both sugar free and low salt are readily available in all supermarkets. But when entertaining anyone with specific dietary needs perhaps they could bring something along....as most people do these days,its a small contribution because it's acceptable and that you probably aren't running a DB&B.

Re: Diabetic food - Joe (18th Jun 2025  11:06:47) Problem is with sugar free products they all contain a chemical sugar substitute which is bad for the body and tastes synthetic. Why not just ask the person? I know plenty of people with diabetes who have a medication which allows them to eat a normal diet.

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (18th Jun 2025  11:43:12) Sorry guys but we are not new to diabetes. The person coming is my wife’s brother in law he’s been a diabetic for many years he has all the necessary stuff and is monitored regularly. We have holidayed together for many years. We used to get apple pie from the Blackmore apple shop they specialised in diabetic pies. As for sainsburys as said asked about it and the lady said no because she has a diabetic husband and she can’t buy anything in sainsburys I spent a lot of time going through the free from products none was sugar free. Never mind it was only a thought for the weekend . We have no problems with food it’s just an observation.

Re: Diabetic food - paul (18th Jun 2025  12:33:27) Hi Russ, I have been a diabetic for 25 years, and do not buy diabetic meals from main stores. I think you will find they died out in the 90's onwards. Now from your doctor, or dietician, they will give advice on foods to eat, with this disease. Myself, I have good diabetic control, and blood sugars levels. Eating fresh vegetables, and fruit is good. Foods low in sugar, salt, and saturated fats also. Check labels, worth it. I find as a diabetic you can eat most of foods readily available in shops, with the provisions mentioned.

Re: Diabetic food - Darren (18th Jun 2025  13:56:29) Similar to Paul, I’ve been a diagnosed diabetic for nearly twenty years. “Diabetic” foods are a con. Make your guest a reasonably healthy meal that you would make for any other guest. More importantly make it the tastiest meal you can, your guest will no doubt appreciate the effort you have gone too far more than buying something from the shop which will probably have substituted sugar for something highly processed.

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (18th Jun 2025  14:14:53) Hi Paul yes we know all the ins and outs he’s been a diabetic a very long time has all the medications and injections regular checks etc. We don’t usually do anything different when they come he knows what he can eat we have absolutely no problem . I once went to the farm shop near petersfield that sells venison and lots of great stuff ask about some ice cream for a diabetic he can have some vanilla if it’s not got to much sugar recommend some said that’s ok so brought it . When he looked at it loads of sugar. I’m trying to get it over that food shop’s especially supermarkets don’t cater for diabetics not that it matters but they cater for vegans vegetarian gluten so why not diabetics.Just bringing it to attention we don’t have a problem with it . Just think if they didn’t stock all that other stuff there would be uproar from the people that want that stuff.. Just saying.

Re: Diabetic food - Brian (18th Jun 2025  14:45:32) Sainsbury's do some nice sugar free Siro Vanilla wafers (which I have not found anywhere else). They are on the top shelf in the biscuits section. You can also get some really nice diabetic ice scream from Meadow cottage farm near Arford. I stopped using them because my dog got hold of the container once. The ice cream is made with Xylitol which is toxic to dogs, so be careful. If you are after, a ready made meal, I find that Cook's in Haslemere tend to have some good options. Let them know that you are catering for a diabetic and they should print out a list of the available options.

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (18th Jun 2025  15:44:13) Thanks Brian will try the ice cream. Rang cooks they said the didn’t do diabetic meals or anything for diabetics. Interesting when you start looking to find out about something.

Re: Diabetic food - Joe (18th Jun 2025  16:02:23) If xylitol is lethal for dogs do you not think that is harmful in some way to humans? Anything which says “sugar free” has a replacement chemical.

Re: Diabetic food - Susie (18th Jun 2025  17:59:52) Russ Diabetic food stuffs as you refer to them are unnecessary. They went out of favour many years ago and aren't recommended by healthcare professionals. Pretty sure your guests will have his own ideas or as i mentioned earlier could bring his own, fuss free....

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (18th Jun 2025  20:47:55) Susie first they are family old like me . We have all sorts of different dietary members in our family, vegetarian, vegan, some who won’t eat dairy products, and diabetics, and of course some of us will eat most things. And some that must not have nuts . So we are very familiar with different diets . Brother in law has been a diabetic for many years and is very familiar with all the ins and outs he is monitored regularly. What my post is about is the lack of options for diabetic people in Supermarkets. In supermarkets there is all the yes stuff for all the other diets but not for the ones that matter ie vegan, vegetarian. Etc are peoples choices of diet not for health reasons. Diabetes, nut allergy, and that sort of illness can kill you if you’re not careful. So in my humble opinion it’s more important than the others that’s what I’m trying to get across. Anyway we are on top of it my wife is a fantastic cook and hasn’t killed him yet. Brian had some great suggestions going to see if we can get some diabetic ice creams do us all good.

Re: Diabetic food - M (19th Jun 2025  09:23:54) Russ You're a bit behind the times. Diabetes is a medical condition not a preferred choice. Diabetes is for the majority a self managing condition with support from specialists if type 1, and even more straightforward if type 2. Even the majority type 1 self care with their diet and insulin through self testing and all that new paraphernalia called apps... drinking beer, eating mars bars and playing football,all the normal stuff. No "special" foods are required and so your quest for them to be stocked in supermarkets is nonsense.

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (19th Jun 2025  11:52:04) O dear seems I’m misunderstood yes M I am fully aware of all conditions that’s what I said. Diabetes, Gluten, nut allergy etc are CONDITIONS of health that can be controlled by medication and diet but are still dangerous if you get caught out . Vegetarian, vegan, and any sort of diet that you undertake just as choices is not the same it’s your choice the others are more or less a way of life to stay alive. That’s what I’m trying to explain but seem to have failed so Signing off because it seems others have different opinions. M please don’t say I’m behind the times when you have no idea.

Re: Diabetic food - Editor (19th Jun 2025  11:59:39) From Google While there isn't a specific food category labeled "diabetic food," a healthy, balanced diet is crucial for managing diabetes. This diet should include a variety of foods from all the main food groups and focus on options that help control blood sugar levels. Key aspects of a diabetes-friendly diet: Focus on healthy carbohydrates: Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes over refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary drinks. Include lean protein: Opt for sources like fish, chicken, turkey, beans, and lentils. Eat plenty of non-starchy vegetables: These are low in calories and carbohydrates and rich in vitamins and fiber. Choose healthy fats: Include sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Limit added sugars and saturated fats: These can negatively impact blood sugar and overall health. Portion control: Pay attention to serving sizes to manage calorie and carbohydrate intake. Consider a registered dietitian: A dietitian can help create a personalized meal plan that meets your individual needs and preferences. Foods to emphasize: Non-starchy vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, peppers, etc. Fruits: Berries, apples, oranges (whole fruits, not juices). Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats. Lean proteins: Fish, chicken, turkey, beans, lentils, tofu. Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, olive oil. Dairy or dairy alternatives: Unsweetened yogurt and milk. Foods to limit or avoid: Sugary drinks: Sodas, sweetened juices. Sweets: Cakes, cookies, candy. Processed foods: Packaged snacks, fast food. Refined carbohydrates: White bread, white rice. Important Considerations: Individualized approach: What works for one person with diabetes may not work for another. Factors like age, activity level, and other health conditions play a role. Consult with a healthcare professional: It's crucial to work with a doctor or registered dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan that is safe and effective for managing your diabetes. Don't be afraid to eat sweets: Small portions of sweets can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal plan.

Re: Diabetic food - M (19th Jun 2025  15:33:56) Russ I have more idea than you,having worked in the pharma industry for almost all my working life. You have demonstrated you are out of touch. Diabetes was just one specialty I was involved with selling,promoting and managing all meds associated and directing marketing at all levels to all healthcare agencies throughout England,Ireland etc etc through a well known global brand. Oh and did I mention introducing apps....of course you know all about those I guess. No idea what your experience is,seems you're a bit cagey on that one,just fishing for info when Ed finds it under Google - just like that! Why couldn't you do that I wonder, reply isn't necessary I'll make my own judgement call.

Re: Diabetic food - Russ (19th Jun 2025  16:04:53) Thank you M for your input.

Re: Diabetic food - er (19th Jun 2025  16:52:32) When the advice says avoid processed food, you realise just how confusing and difficult it's going to be! Processed food is basically anything that isn't raw and in its original form, this includes most things we cook at home as well as the things you can buy in a supermarket. Whilst processed food can contain hidden menaces, a lot of processed food, ie ready to eat salads can be ok for diabetics. The bigger danger lies in ultra processed foods which are far worse and contain any substance or process that you couldn't replicate in your kitchen, processes like homogenisation, radiation, chemicals, preservatives and bulking agents etc that are made in chemical factories, even if they use innocuous sounding names. It also includes virtually all fast food. A diabetic diet is challenging, it takes loads of eating discipline and planning ahead, the problem with type 2 diabetes being that it is often caused by being overweight, thereby targeting food lovers and gluttons like myself, a cruel twist really! Exercise may be the best bet for many if that's still viable, it's being shown to be quite effective especially in the early stages.

Re: Diabetic food - paul (21st Jun 2025  12:49:55) Hi, Yes there used to be a saying for men getting diabetes, "over weight, and over 40 years old". Getting control, and losing weight, is one the best ways to look after the disease. Without it, only makes blood sugar levels rise, and make worse the condition.

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