How Type 2 Diabetic People Can Benefit From Changing The Order Of Food While Eating

You must have heard about meal sequencing. It refers to changing the order of food and the way you eat. However, a few reels on Instagram claim that meal sequencing can help to reduce the intake of glucose. 

We connected with Dr Priyamvada Tyagi, Consultant Endocrinologist, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, New Delhi. She added that meal sequencing does not have any effect on the digestive process. But it can help type 2 diabetic people. Here is how. 

Can Meal Sequencing Lower Blood Sugar?

According to Dr Tyagi, meal sequencing suggests eating protein and fibre before carbohydrates. It makes a person feel full for long. She added that the theory behind meal sequencing is that when you eat protein and non-starchy vegetables before carbohydrates, it can help lower blood sugar levels. This is called sequential nutrient indigestion. 

It was noted in the study that insulin levels among people who ate bread after salad was lower compared to the ones who ate bread first. She added that fibrous food does not coat the wall of the stomach, so absorption of elements in the food is not affected.

Meal Sequencing And Diabetes Management

Dr Tyagi said that the standard practice that people should follow is to manage diabetes includes a balanced diet as a part of their meals. It should be a mix of protein, carbohydrates, fat, fibre, and protein.

However, the expert suggested keeping a cap on the amount of carbohydrates you are consuming, especially if the food is known to contain a high amount of glycemic index, like soft drinks, potatoes, etc. The doctor also added that eating selectively can also cause an imbalance of nutrients in the body and promote eating disorders among many. Therefore, a person must consult their doctor or nutritionist for a balanced diet chart.

The doctor added that meal sequencing might not work for Type 1 diabetic people, but it can work for Type 2 diabetic people. However, she suggested that people trying to manage their blood sugar levels should not pay heed to reels on Instagram but follow the advice of their doctors. 

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Benefits Of Meal Sequencing

A 2021 study claimed that there are other benefits of meal sequencing for health than just maintaining blood sugar levels in the body. It can help with weight loss because eating fibre before carbohydrates can slow down digestion and keep you feeling full for long. Thus, it can help you avoid frequent eating or manage eating disorder. 

Another study published by the American Diabetes Association in 2015 stated that meal sequencing can help a person introduce flexibility in their diet. This means that apart from what to eat and when people can also become focused towards how they are eating their meals. 

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