Diabetes Protein Vs. Starch

Starch and protein are both necessary parts to a healthy diet. Proteins and starches are two of the three nutrients the body breaks down and converts into calories that are used for energy, the third being fat. The best way to manage diabetes is to engage in healthful eating habits rich in both complex starches and lean proteins.

What Does Protein Do?

• The amino acids in protein are essential to the proper functioning of the body's organs. People with diabetes cannot properly produce or use insulin, resulting in potential kidney failure. Kidneys are organs that benefit from the nutrients in proteins for function and repair. Therefore, it is recommended for diabetics to consume approximately 30 percent of their daily calories from lean proteins such as chicken, fish and beans.

What Does Starch Do?

• Starches are complex carbohydrates. When broken down, these carbohydrates turn into glucose to be used as food for your cells. Because of the lack of insulin, diabetics cannot properly process the glucose. Therefore, diabetics must regulate their blood glucose levels by consuming less sugar. Simple starches are foods high in sugars and low in fiber content. Diabetics should stay away from simple starches in favor of the more complex ones. About 20 percent of your daily calories should come from starches.

Which Is Better For You?

• Each diabetic's body is different, and what it takes to regulate a person's glucose levels is different. These requirements can change from day to day. The body needs both protein and starch to function optimally. Therefore, it is hard to say which is better for people with diabetes in general. Diabetics have to check their blood glucose levels daily, and their daily diet has to adjust accordingly.

Are There Better Proteins and Starches to Consume?

• Both starch and protein are needed for a balanced diet. However, there are better options for what kinds of proteins and starches a person with diabetes should eat. Lean proteins, such as white meat chicken and fish, are better than beef or pork. Complex starches, such as fruits and vegetables and whole grains, are better than white rice or white bread. Because weight management is a way to control and prevent certain types of diabetes, these options are also better for all-around health.

How Do Diets, Like Atkins, Affect Diabetes?

• The Atkins Diet is a nutritional plan high in protein consumption and minimal in carbohydrate intake. Diabetic specialists recommend a well-rounded diet in which 20 percent of your daily calories come from starch, 30 percent from protein and the rest from fat. However, there has been no conclusive evidence that a diet high in protein will have negative effects on a person with diabetes. Daily nutrition adjustments and blood level monitoring are required for any diabetic's health and stability.