Diabetes is caused by problems with insulin leading to elevated blood sugar. Approximately 6 percent of people in the United States have diabetes, according to the Obesity Society. People with diabetes do not need to eat special foods, but do need make healthy choices and control portion sizes. Consult with a physician before making changes in the diet.
Breads and Starches
Breads and starches provide the body with carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Carbohydrates in food increase blood sugar, and people with diabetes need to control the amount of carbohydrate-containing foods in their diet. Whole-grain foods are a better choice for people with diabetes because the fiber helps to slow digestion and aid in blood sugar control. Fiber also helps people feel full longer and aids in weight control. Bread and starch food choices for diabetics include bread, cereal, pasta, rice, tortillas, potatoes, corn, peas and crackers. Examples of whole grains include whole-wheat bread and pasta, brown rice, millet, quinoa and barley.
Vegetables
Vegetables are an important component of the diabetic diet, according to MayoClinic.com. Vegetables are low in calorie and high in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Vegetable food choices for a diabetic include leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cauliflower, eggplant, artichokes, mushrooms, cucumbers, spinach, onions and asparagus. Dark green and orange-colored vegetables are the most nutrient dense, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Fruits
Fruits provide fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Fruits provide a significant source of carbohydrate, and intake needs to be controlled. Fruit choices for the diabetic include apples, oranges, grapes, berries, melons, unsweetened canned fruit and dried fruit. People with diabetes should eat more whole fruit rather than drinking the juice because the fiber in the whole fruit helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar.
Milk
Milk is a source of carbohydrates, but also provides protein and calcium. People with diabetes should choose low-fat and fat-free milk products to limit saturated-fat intake. Diabetics have an increased risk for heart disease, and too much saturated fat in the diet increases cholesterol levels. Good milk choices include skim milk and fat-free, sugar-free yogurt.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Meat and meat substitutes include beef, poultry, pork, fish, tofu, eggs and cheese. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders recommends small amounts of these foods be eaten everyday. Lean meats, such as pork loin, white poultry meat, fish and beef eye of round, are the preferred choices because of the lower saturated fat content.
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