Diet plays a major role in the management of diabetes. Diabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugars. Food, specifically foods containing carbohydrate, contribute to those high blood sugars. People with diabetes do not need to eat special foods, but they are encouraged to make healthy food choices, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK). The diabetes exchange list and the diabetes food guide pyramid are tools people with diabetes can use to help them determine healthy foods to eat.
Starches
Starches make up the bulk of the diabetic diet, according to NIDDK. Starches are also a major source of carbohydrate, and people with diabetes need to control the amount they consume of these foods. A list of starches people with diabetes can eat include bread, bagels, English muffins, rolls, rice, pasta, crackers, peas, corn, popcorn, pretzels, cereal, pancakes, potatoes and couscous. People with diabetes are encouraged to choose whole-grain starches for its fiber. Fiber in foods, specifically soluble fiber, helps to slow down digestion and the release of sugar into the bloodstream. Whole-grains include whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, buckwheat, quinoa, barley and brown rice.
Milk and Yogurt
Milk and yogurt provide protein and calcium; they also contain carbohydrate. People with diabetes should choose low-fat and nonfat milk and yogurt products to limit their intake of saturated fat. People with diabetes have higher rates of heart disease, and too much saturated fat in the diet increases cholesterol levels--a risk factor for heart disease. Milk and yogurt choices for people with diabetes include skim milk, 1-percent fat milk, nonfat plain yogurt, buttermilk and nonfat, sugar-free, fruited yogurt.
Fruit
Fruits provide diabetics with fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Fruits also contain carbohydrate, and intake needs to be controlled. When it comes to fruit, eating the whole fruit is always better than drinking the juice. The fiber in the whole fruit not only limits blood sugar spikes but also helps to control hunger. A list of fruits for diabetics include all fresh fruit, unsweetened canned fruits, unsweetened dried fruits and fruit juices.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Lean sources of meat and meat substitutes are recommended for people with diabetes. Lean meats are lower in saturated fat and calories. A list of meat and meat substitutes for diabetes includes egg whites, egg substitute, low-fat cheese, poultry without the skin, fish, shellfish, canned tuna packed in water, tofu, low-fat hot dogs, lean luncheon meats, pork tenderloin and beef sirloin.
Vegetables
Vegetables are low in calorie and carbohydrate and high in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Deep green and orange colored vegetables are the most nutrient dense and should be chosen most often, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. People with diabetes can eat fresh, frozen and low-sodium canned vegetables. A list of healthy choices includes broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans, zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, tomatoes, cabbage, spinach, kale, collards, peppers and leafy greens.
Fat
Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are the healthiest fat choices for people with diabetes. A list of monounsaturated fats for diabetes includes olive oil, canola oil, peanuts, peanut butter, almonds and macadamia nuts. A list of polyunsaturated fats for diabetes includes margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressings, walnuts, flax seeds and vegetable oil. Fats are a concentrated source of calories, and people with diabetes should eat small portions.
