RAK Hospital, as part of the RAK Diabetes Challenge 2024, organized the Dia-Beat Webinar series with the aim of educating individuals on managing diabetes. The recent webinar, titled “The Role of Carbohydrates in the Management of Diabetes,” was presented by Ruba Al Hourani, the Head of the Dietetics Department at RAK Hospital. The session focused on the importance of carbohydrates in controlling blood sugar levels and overall health for individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Al Hourani highlighted the fundamental aspects of diabetes, explaining that the condition is characterized by elevated levels of glucose in the bloodstream. She emphasized the role of carbohydrates in the body, stating that they are broken down into sugars that enter the bloodstream and are either used for energy or stored in the body based on insulin levels. Type 2 Diabetes, which represents over 90% of diabetes cases, is often a result of poor dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle, leading to an accumulation of sugar in the blood.
The significance of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, in maintaining a balanced diet was emphasized by Al Hourani. She provided detailed strategies for managing carbohydrate intake effectively, such as focusing on fiber-rich fruits and vegetables over starchy foods, choosing whole grains over processed foods, and adopting meal timing and portion control practices. Understanding the glycemic index of foods, which measures how quickly carbohydrates are converted into glucose, and using the plate method for balanced meals were also recommended.
During the webinar, Al Hourani conducted a Q&A session addressing participants’ queries regarding diabetic diets. She highlighted some of the best diets for diabetes management, as identified by Forbes Healthcare in 2024, including the Mediterranean Diet, the DASH Diet, and the ORNISH Diet. These diets emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, along with daily physical activity, making them suitable choices for individuals managing diabetes and related conditions.
The Dia-Beat Webinar series by RAK Hospital serves as a vital platform for community education on diabetes, providing evidence-based strategies and expert advice to help individuals effectively manage and control the condition. By offering valuable insights into carbohydrate management and dietary practices, the webinars aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle while managing diabetes. Al Hourani’s expertise and guidance continue to support individuals in making informed choices for their health and well-being.
Overall, the Dia-Beat Webinar series provides a comprehensive approach to diabetes education, focusing on the role of carbohydrates in managing the condition. Through informative sessions, expert advice, and practical strategies, individuals are equipped with the necessary information to make dietary and lifestyle changes that can positively impact their diabetes management. With ongoing support from RAK Hospital and its dedicated team of healthcare professionals, individuals can work towards better health outcomes and improved quality of life while living with diabetes.
