Controlling your blood sugar through dieting is an ideal way to improve your health and ensure quality of life. According to the American Diabetes Association, three suggested meal planning guides are currently in place for diabetics. You could opt to count carbohydrates and proteins, or follow a modified glucose-friendly food pyramid. However you choose, a few main nutritional guidelines should be followed to effectively control your blood sugar.
Step 1
Eat 6 to 11 servings of starches per day, suggests the American Diabetes Association. Foods such as beans, rye, wheat and whole grain cereals are ideal sources for the carbohydrates needed to control blood sugar. Staying within range does not mean you have to meet the highest end of the range, but it is important to consume no less than six servings per day.
Step 2
Consume five fruits and vegetables per day. Adding vegetables to your cooked dishes or grabbing a piece of fruit or raw veggie for an afternoon snack is ideal for attaining this goal, suggests Life Clinic Personal Health Management. Fruits and vegetables contain soluble fiber, which is responsible for decreasing the absorption rate of glucose from your intestines, thus helping you maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Step 3
Consume two to three servings of low-fat or nonfat dairy products per day, instructs the American Diabetes Association. Dairy products such as low-fat milk and yogurt contain higher amounts of calcium and protein as well as vitamins and minerals.
Step 4
Eat sweets and refined sugars in moderation. One to two times a week is the maximum allowed serving when keeping your blood sugar in check, according to Life Clinic Personal Health Management. Candies, cookies, sodas and chocolate all fall into this category and cause your sugar to spike when consumed on a regular basis. Limiting consumption of these foods will help keep sugar levels under control without putting a strain on your health.
