A healthy diet is not only important for preventing chronic conditions, but is also crucial for managing chronic conditions.
"Food can actually be a form of medicine when it comes to illnesses like diabetes, heart conditions and hypertension," says Vitality dietitian Terry Harris. She explains that this is because these conditions are often a result of what we eat. "A healthy diet is crucial in managing these conditions," adds Terry.
Bridget McNulty is the co founder of Sweet Life, SA's largest online diabetes community. The Vitality HealthyFood Studio, together with Bridget, has designed delicious and nutritious recipes for people to improve their meal choices without compromising on taste.
"Food must be delicious and delightful, otherwise it would take away one of the greatest pleasures of life. We also know that delicious food needn't be unhealthy. Our chefs and Bridget will surprise you with these healthy recipes which have been analysed by the Vitality nutrition team to include the carbohydrate content per serving, a useful tool for diabetics," says Terry.
Terry advises that healthy eating, regular physical activity, and taking prescribed medicine are all key components of managing chronic conditions. On the dietary side, she adds that we must cut out refined starches, added sugar, highly processed foods and saturated fats.
Lean towards whole plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and healthy fats. "People don't realise that these healthy options or swap outs don't have to sacrifice flavour," says Bridget.
Examples of the dishes include Salmon quinoa bun-less burgers or Grilled lemon herb chicken and avocado salad. "There are also hearty dishes so you won't be left feeling hungry, like One pan ginger ostrich meatballs with tomato fondue, Moroccan spiced eggplant and tomato stew, and a nourishing chicken pie," adds Bridget.