Diabetes is a group of diseases distinguished by high blood-glucose levels that are caused by the body's inability to produce or use insulin. Diabetes has three forms: Type 1, which most often is diagnosed in juveniles; Type 2, commonly caused by poor lifestyle choices; and gestational, which occurs in women during pregnancy. No matter which type of diabetes you have, all three require eating the proper foods to sustain a healthy weight and keep blood-sugar levels under control.
Fruits
Eat a wide and colorful variety of fruits. Fruit is nutritious and supplies your body with fiber as well as vitamins and minerals. Eat fruit or drink a small glass of fruit juice to curb your sweet cravings instead of giving in to sugary sweets like candy and cookies. Some common fruits to eat if you are diabetic are apples, bananas, cantaloupe, berries, grapes, grapefruit, oranges and dried fruit. Moreover, eat plenty of fresh, frozen, dried and canned fruit that does not have added sugar. When selecting canned fruits, be sure to choose those packed in natural fruit juice or light syrup. Always eat fruit in moderation; although fruit is healthy for you, it also contains high amounts of carbohydrates and sugar.
Vegetables
Include in your diet a wide variety of vegetables that are colorful. Eat non-starchy vegetables such as spinach, carrots, broccoli or green beans. Some other great vegetable choices include green, red or yellow peppers, onions, tomatoes, celery and artichokes. Shop for fresh or frozen vegetables that do not contain sodium or added preservatives.
Lean Meats
Great sources of protein include lean meats and meat substitutes such as soy. Choose meats that are low in fat and saturated fats. Eat plenty of meals that include dried beans, such as black, lima and pinto beans; legumes; peas; and lentils. If you prefer your protein as fish or seafood, look for flounder, salmon, tuna, tilapia, clams, crab and lobster. Also, when shopping for meats, include poultry--chicken and turkey--and lean beef such as sirloin. Veal and lamb chops are great options as well.
Whole Grains
Eat whole wheat or whole grain breads, pastas and cereals that are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Refrain from buying products that contain bleached and enriched flour. Bleached flour contains additives that diminish the natural grains. Enriched flour has had nutrients removed and only some of them are replaced. Healthy choices for whole grains are brown rice, whole oats or oatmeal, whole wheat flour, fat-free refried beans, vegetarian baked beans and popcorn.
Dairy
The best choice for milk products are nonfat or low fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Buy plain soy milk to reduce sugar intake, and try to stick with natural cheeses versus processed cheese products.
