Diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high blood sugar due to a lack of insulin or an inability of the body to properly use the insulin, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. Treatment for diabetes involves making changes to the diet. People with diabetes do not need to follow a special diet, but it is recommended they eat well-balanced meals with a variety of foods from all of the food groups.
Starches and Grains
Foods in the starches and grain group contain carbohydrates. Carbohydrates cause blood sugar to elevate, and people with diabetes need to control the amount of carbohydrates they consume at each meal. High-fiber starches and grains are preferred, but people with diabetes can eat any food from the starches and grains group as long as they control the portion. Acceptable starches and grains allowed on the diabetic diet include bread and bread products, rice, pasta, crackers, potatoes, cereal, all grains, corn, peas, winter squash, popcorn, pretzels and rice cakes.
Fruits
Fruits also contain carbohydrates and people with diabetes need to control the amount of fruit in their diet to limit spikes in blood sugar. Fresh fruit is recommended over juice because the fiber in fruits helps to slow down digestion, satisfy hunger and offer better blood sugar control, according to MayoClinic.com. Acceptable fruits for the diabetic diet include all fresh fruit, unsweetened canned fruit, dried fruit without added sugar and juice without added sugar.
Milk
Milk is another source of carbohydrates in the diet and the amount consumed needs to be controlled. Low-fat and fat-free milk products are preferred. Acceptable milk products for diabetics include milk, yogurt, buttermilk, chocolate milk, evaporated milk, soy milk and eggnog.
Meats and Meat Substitutes
Meats and meat substitutes are primarily made up of fat and protein. People with diabetes are at a greater risk for cardiovascular disease and leaner cuts of meat are recommended, according to MayoClinic.com. Acceptable meat and meat substitutes for the diabetic include chicken, beef, turkey, fish, pork, lamb, tofu, cheese and eggs.
Non-Starchy Vegetables
Non-starchy vegetables contain very little carbohydrates and are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals and fiber, according to MayoClinic.com. Acceptable non-starchy vegetables for a diabetic include artichokes, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, leafy greens, zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, spinach, peppers, onions and rutabaga.
Fats and Oils
Fats and oils are a concentrated source of calories and the amount diabetics consume needs to controlled to prevent excessive intake. Acceptable fats and oils include butter, margarine, vegetable oil, olive oil, canola oil, mayonnaise, salad dressing, peanut butter, nuts, bacon, cream and cream cheese.
