Following a healthy diet is critical in keeping your blood glucose level (blood sugar) in your specific target range. This includes balancing what you eat/drink with physical activity and medications, if applicable. Thus, it is very important to monitor what you eat, how much you eat, and when you eat in order to keep your glucose levels in your health care provider's recommended range.
What foods can I eat if I have diabetes?
The key to creating a meal plan is to eat various healthy foods from all food groups, in the specific amount that your meal plan allots.
Food groups include:
What foods should I limit if I have diabetes?
It is best to drink wanted instead of sweetened beverages. One should consider using various sugar substitutes for coffee and tea.
Why should I be physically active if I have diabetes?
Physical activity is important in managing your diabetes and staying healthy. There are several health benefits that include:
What foods can I eat if I have diabetes?
The key to creating a meal plan is to eat various healthy foods from all food groups, in the specific amount that your meal plan allots.
Food groups include:
- Vegetables
- Nonstarchy: includes carrots, greens, peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes
- Starchy: includes green peas, corn, and potatoes
- Fruits
- includes oranges, berries, apples, bananas, grapes, and melons
- Grains
- at least of half of your grains should be whole grains
- includes wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal, barley, and quinoa
- examples include bread, pasta, cereal, and tortillas
- Proteins
- includes lean meat, chicken/turkey (without skin), fish, eggs, nuts, dried bean
- Dairy- nonfat or low fat
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Heart-healthy fats
- Oils that are liquid at room temperature, such as canola and olive oil
- Nuts and seeds
- Heart-healthy fish such as salmon and tuna
- Avocado
What foods should I limit if I have diabetes?
- Fried foods
- Foods that are high in saturated fat and trans fat
- Sweets: includes baked goods, candy, and ice cream
- Beverages with added sugars, such as juice, regular soda, and sports/energy drinks
It is best to drink wanted instead of sweetened beverages. One should consider using various sugar substitutes for coffee and tea.
Why should I be physically active if I have diabetes?
Physical activity is important in managing your diabetes and staying healthy. There are several health benefits that include:
- lowered blood glucose levels
- lowered blood pressure
- improved blood flow
- improved mood
- burned calories (too keep weight down if needed)