Smart diabetes management: 6 practical shopping tips for diabetics

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December 28, 2025 | 5:31pm

MANILA, Philippines — The observance of National Diabetes Awareness Month in the Philippines every November gives the public the opportunity to focus on this disease, which is affecting a huge percentage of the population today due to lifestyle and habits.

There is no cure for diabetes, only proper management. Those who have the condition and manage it well, however, can live an almost normal life and not have to suffer from its consequences.

Managing diabetes begins with everyday choices — and diet plays a vital role in diabetes management. It has a lot to do with food, whether you are buying ingredients for the dishes you intend to cook at home or ordering ready-to-eat meals from the restaurant. You have to be mindful of what goes into the food that you are buying. Each decision is an opportunity to support blood sugar control and overall well-being.

Because food choices matter, shopping becomes more than a routine task. It becomes a form of self-care. So those trips to the supermarket should be a good way to start diabetes management.

By learning to read nutrition labels, practicing portion control, and choosing the right mix of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and healthy fats, people with diabetes can create meals that are both nourishing and enjoyable.

Here are some smart shopping strategies for better diabetes management:

1. Plan before you shop

Preparing a weekly meal plan and grocery list helps reduce impulsive purchases and ensures alignment with your diabetes care plan. Planning ahead also minimizes food waste and supports consistent, balanced eating habits.

2. Navigate grocery aisles wisely

Fill your cart with fiber-rich, nutrient-dense foods that help regulate blood sugar.  Local options, such as malunggay (moringa), kangkong (water spinach), and okra are readily available choices.

Swap white rice for brown rice or adlai (Job’s tears) — local grains with lower glycemic index (GI) and higher fiber content. Include plant-based proteins like mung beans and tofu, and choose snacks such as yoghurt, dried fruits, almonds, and whole grain crackers.

3. Choose healthy beverages

Avoid sugary drinks like sodas, powdered juices, and sweetened teas. Instead, hydrate with water, salabat (ginger tea), or infused water with lemon and cucumber — refreshing options that help keep blood sugar stable.

4. Read nutrition labels carefully

Focus on total carbohydrates, fiber, and added sugars. Pay attention to portion sizes and servings per container. Look for food with higher protein and fiber content, which slow glucose absorption and provide sustained energy.

5. Prioritize low GI foods

Everyday options include leafy greens, whole grains like oats, legumes, beans and unsweetened dairy. Specialized nutritional supplements like Glucerna is formulated with a low-GI carbohydrate blend and myo-inositol, which keeps blood sugar steady by supporting gradual glucose release and minimizing post-meal spikes.

6. Avoid marketing traps

Labels like “sugar-free” or “low-fat” can be misleading. Some products may still contain high levels of refined carbohydrates or calories. Always read the full nutrition label to make informed choices.

“By making informed, intentional choices, you're not just filling your cart — you're investing in your health. From the grocery aisle to the dining table, selecting food rich in protein, fiber and low glycemic index carbohydrates can help stabilize blood sugar and sustain energy. Start small, stay consistent, and let your next grocery run be the first step toward a healthier, more empowered you,” said Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines.

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