Individuals with type 1 diabetes need to closely monitor their daily intake of carbohydrates, protein and fat. The intake of these nutrients determines the amount of insulin that must be taken to control blood sugar levels. For people with type 2 diabetes, the main focus of diet is weight control. The American Diabetes Association offers a guide to foods that should be included in a diabetic diet.
Whole Grains and Beans
Carbohydrate intake gets the most attention in a diabetic diet. Whole-grain cereals and breads, beans, rice and starchy vegetables such as sweet potatoes are the foundation of a healthy diet. According to MedlinePlus, a person with diabetes should have six or more servings from this food group. Healthy complex carbohydrate choices provide fiber, vitamins and minerals. Choices include bran cereal, whole-grain crackers, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and beans and lentils. The American Diabetes Association recommends allotting one quarter of your dinner plate to this food group.
Green Leafy Vegetables
The recommended daily intake of vegetables is three to five servings. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, chard and collards are rich sources of beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin K. When choosing vegetables, either fresh or frozen, a person with diabetes should avoid added sauces, and not add anything at the table, including butter and salt.
Asparagus and Squash
The American Diabetes Association lists asparagus and squash as vegetables suitable for a diabetic diet. Asparagus are low in fat, high in fiber and rich in vitamins A and C. Various squash varieties are available year round. Squash contains vitamins A and C, some vitamin B, iron and calcium.
Oranges, Grapefruits and Tangerines
These fresh fruits are a good source of vitamins and fiber. A diabetic diet should include fresh fruit and not fruit juices with added sugar.
Lean Beef, Pork and Poultry
When selecting meat, choose lean cuts of beef such as tenderloin, sirloin and flank steak. Remove the skin on chicken and turkey. Select the breast meat of poultry because it is lower in fat than the dark meat of the legs and thighs. Lean cuts of pork include pork loin, center loin chops and Canadian bacon.
Low-Fat Dairy Products
A diabetic diet should include low-fat dairy products. Skim milk, one-percent milk and low-fat buttermilk are good choices. Any cheese with 3 g or less of fat per ounce, low-fat or fat-free yogurt, low-fat ice cream and frozen yogurt can be part of the diet.
