People with diabetes can take pleasure from wonderful foods that taste great and provide necessary nutrients. Controlling diabetes does not require complicated diets; rather, it involves eating moderate portions of certain foods and keeping regular meal or snack times. Once a person with diabetes understands the nutritional value of various foods and the importance of eating on a schedule, they can take advantage of great foods and avoid complications from diabetes.
Meat and Fish
People with diabetes can enjoy delicious chicken breast, turkey breast and even lean cuts of beef and pork. Cut off all visible fat and flavor meats with healthy herbs and spices. Replacing meats with fish has become a popular choice for health-conscious people and makes a great alternative for diabetics. The American Diabetes Association recommends fish high in omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel and herring have plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent heart disease.
Whole Grains
Whole-wheat breads and pasta, oats, oatmeal, rye, brown rice and pearled barley are high in fiber and potassium. Whole grains are grains that include the bran and wheat germ, which provide nutrients such as magnesium and chromium. Processed grains may not have as many nutrients. Whole grains make people feel fuller to keep them satisfied without the indigestion or other unhealthy effects of fatty foods.
Beans and Legumes
Nutritious kidney, pinto, navy, lima and black beans provide fiber, magnesium and potassium. They also offer protein without the saturated fats found in meat. Other nutritious legumes include lentils, soybeans, black-eyed peas and chickpeas.
Vegetables
Spinach, collards, kale and other leafy green vegetables have low amounts of calories and carbohydrates. Sweet potatoes have plenty of vitamin A and fiber. Helpguide.org suggests cutting up bell peppers, tomatoes, celery and carrots and keeping them in plastic bags or containers to provide snacks throughout the day. Keeping veggies in the freezer makes them last longer so they can be added to meals later on.
Fruits
Many fruits contain antioxidants, vitamins and fiber. Strawberries, blueberries, apples, bananas, pears, peaches, oranges and grapefruit make great snacks and desserts to keep blood sugar levels under control. Tomatoes, often thought of as vegetables but actually in the fruit category, have vital nutrients, including vitamin C, iron and vitamin E. Eat them raw, in a sauce or pureed, the American Diabetes Association says.
Dairy
Choose low-fat milk and yogurt, a choice also made by many who do not have diabetes for health and diet purposes. Use low-fat sour cream or select plain low-fat yogurt as a sour cream substitute. Sugar-free ice cream and sugar-free frozen yogurt make great desserts or snacks.
