Think about food

FOR your readers a popular way to celebrate Chinese New Year last Monday might  have been to have a treat and order a takeaway, and there’s certainly no harm in doing that. But making the right food choices is important, either to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes or to manage diabetes if you already have it. While takeaways typically contain more calories as well as high levels of saturated fat, sugar and salt, you can find healthier swaps in the menu if you think carefully about what you are ordering. Try choosing dishes with added vegetables, such as pak choi, bean sprouts and broccoli as these are naturally low in fat and calories, contain fibre, vitamins and minerals and are an important part of a balanced diet. A plant-based diet may also help protect against stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure and some cancers. You can get creative and make your own Chinese feast at home. There are lots of healthier Chinese recipes on Diabetes UK’s Enjoy Food finder. For more information on eating healthily and recipe suggestions, visit www.diabetes.org.uk/enjoyfood.