COOKING OIL:

 Which oil is best?

 Whether oil is good or bad depends on the type of fat present in it. The good oils are mustard, ricebran, soyabean, groundnut, til, olive oil.

 Is mustard oil good for health?

 Yes, mustard oil is good for health. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which is an essential fatty acid. Moreover, it is also rich in MUFA, which is again a good fat.

 How much oil should be consumed per month?

 This varies widely from person to person. As per ADA recommendation, the total fat intake should not exceed more than 30 per cent of the total calorie requirement.

 POTATO:

 Can a diabetic patient have potato?

 Yes, a diabetic patient can have potatoes, in moderation and preferably with mixed vegetables. If someone wants to enjoy the any preparation of potato, he or she should take some fibrous foods like salads and vegetables.

 Does potato increase blood sugar level or body weight?

 Yes, potato can increase blood sugar level like any other carbohydrate rich food. Once should avoid taking too much potato, esepecially in fried form.

 Should one take potato with skin?

 The skin contains maximum fiber, therefore if taken with skin, one can avoid a high peek in the sugar levels.

 SWEETS:

 Is sweet banned for a diabetic patient?

 No, sweets are not banned, one can take sweets even if diabetic, but of course, in restricted amount. One should also substitute some carbohydrate rich foods like roti, rice etc, so that the recommended carbohydrate intake does not exceed the recommendation.

 How good is diabetic sandesh for a diabetic patient?

 Diabetic sandesh contains either little amount of sugar or are made with sweeteners. But the main concern is the chhena from which it is made. Diabetic sandesh is generally prepared from chhena made out of cow's or buffaloes' milk, which is high in bad fats. Therefore, diabetic sandesh cannot be recommended regularly.

 Occasionally, can one take some sweet dishes like payesh, kheer etc?

 Of course, but change the ingredients to healthy ones like use sugar substitutes, skimmed milk powder, double toned milk etc. Do not forget the mantra- 'in moderation'.

 FRUITS:

 Is fruit good for a diabetic patient?

 Fruits are good for diabetic patients too. Take fruits in moderation and consider it to be a carbohydrate item.

 Can diabetic patient take sweet fruits like mangoes and bananas?

 Yes, Diabetics can take sweet fruits in moderation. Also avoid taking carbohydrate rich foods at the same time and take some fibrous foods along.

 Watermelons are so sweet, can we take some of it?

 Watermelons contain only 3 gm of carbohydrates per 100 gm. Therefore, compared to all other fruits, it is very very low in carbs, so enjoy.......

 Is it mandatory to take fruits everyday?

 Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Therefore, keeping some fruits inn your daily plate will definitely take care of your recommendations.