Nutrition label confusion poses problems for those with diabetes – Uniontown Herald Standard

Diabetes can pose a number of challenges to those with the diagnosis.

With a heavy emphasis on foods, content and the impacts of those choices, understanding nutrition labels can be a daunting task.

Theres a lot of label confusion, so were here to help, said Patricia Zimmerman, a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes educator with the Diabetes Support Group through Monongahela Valley Hospital.

Tomorrow, the group is hosting a Health Eating Supermarket Tour at the Willow Pointe Shop & Save in Belle Vernon.

Learn how to choose foods at the supermarket to manage a healthier lifestyle, the program reads. Health care professionals from Monongahela Valley Hospitals Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology will conduct the tours and discuss how to live a healthier lifestyle.

Zimmerman said a diabetes educator will accompany the group through aisles as they highlight and analyze different carbohydrates, fiber sources and sugar content. Those in attendance also learn about meal planning and shopping on a budget.

The free program requires advanced registration, Zimmerman said, adding that people can call 724-258-1483 for more information.

Well do whatever we can to improve food choices and selections, she said. And our biggest highlight is making sure theyre comfortable with reading a nutrition label.

A lot of people have questions about better choices, said Zimmerman. We also have questions from people about whether they need supplements.

Zimmerman said a common misconception is associated with sugar-free items.

Sugar-free doesnt mean lower carbs. They forget theres other forms of carbs, she said. We want to steer them in the right direction.

Heidi McClain, a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator with Highlands Hospital Diabetes Center, agreed. McClain, who is the only registered dietician in Fayette County that deals with outpatient care, added that she advises diabetics to steer clear of sweetened, sugary drinks.

Free up the limited number of calories you have save them for eating. There are so many calorie-free drinks to chose from, McClain said. She also suggested adding more whole grains and foods with higher fiber content.

As for trips to the supermarket, McClain said one of the keys to success is going with, and sticking to, a shopping list.

Dont shop when youre hungry, McClain said. And stick to the perimeter of the store. Theres where the dairy, meats, fruits and veggies are located.

If you have to go into the inner aisles, get what you need and get out, she added with a laugh. Itll also cut back on impulse buying.

McClain also stressed the importance of understanding labels, noting that basic label reading can help people eat less, lose weight and focus on the foods contents to help blood sugar controls.

Most of us eat on autopilot. We eat because its there in front of us, whether we need it or not, she said. Label reading will make you more aware. Its the first step.

McClain added that there are several classes dealing with nutrition labels and food in general at the diabetes center. More information can be found by calling 724-628-8008.

The American Diabetes Association has a number of resources for those interested in learning more about what they can and cant eat.

In particular, there is information on diabetes superfoods that are chalk-full of vitamins, minerals and fibers, information on grains, starchy and non-starchy vegetables, and on what to eat, or drink, when going out.

They go as far as to provide a sample shopping list with refrigerated items including yogurt, skim milk, cottage cheese, fresh meat or poultry, and fruit/vegetables.

Pantry items include canned vegetables, rice, tuna, pasta and nuts.

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Nutrition label confusion poses problems for those with diabetes - Uniontown Herald Standard