Diabetes necessitates the careful regulation of food intake so as to moderate blood sugar levels and avoid aggravating the condition. The specific food types may vary, however, each meal should generally consist of up to 60 grams of carbohydrates as well as some fat and protein. This may require that certain food types be substituted with foods that are better suited to a diabetic lifestyle, explains the American Diabetes Association.
Eggs
Eggs may be included in a diabetic diet, provided that the egg yolks are removed so as to reduce the amount of fat and cholesterol, explains FamilyDoctor. The method of cooking eggs can affect their overall glycemic index. The glycemic index is a measure of how much a carbohydrate-containing food will elevate the body's blood sugar levels. For example, boiling eggs ensures their glycemic index is lower than by frying them, explains the American Diabetes Association.
Fruits
Fruits are generally excellent foods for diabetics. However, because most fruits are rich sources of carbohydrates, the amount of fruits ingested per meal should be carefully regulated. The overall ripeness of the fruit can affect its glycemic index, explains the American Diabetes Association.
Lean Meat
Lean meats such as beef and turkey provide the body with excellent sources of protein. Nevertheless, it may be a good idea to eat fish two to three times weekly so as to regulate the possible ingestion of the higher levels of fat and cholesterol in beef, pork and poultry. Trimming visible fat from beef and pork, as well as removing the skin from poultry may also further reduce the amount of fat ingested.
Meat Substitutes
Tofu, beans and lentils can also be excellent vegetarian sources of protein, notes the American Diabetes Association. In addition to controlling serving sizes per meal, the time of day that food is ingested can alter the way it affects the body, according to HelpGuide. One rule of thumb to follow is to eat the largest portions at breakfast and gradually reduce the amount ingested as the day progresses.
Non-Fat Dairy Food
Dairy foods such as butter, cheese, milk, and yogurt may be included seamlessly in a diabetic diet, notes the American Diabetes Association. Low-fat or non-fat versions of the dairy food products included in the diet are preferable to the whole-fat versions.
Seafood
Seafood such as mussels, crab, shrimp and lobsters are great food options for diabetics, notes the American Diabetes Association.
Vegetables
Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and spinach are healthy food options for diabetics. However, starchy vegetables such as potatoes should be avoided because these could elevate blood sugar levels.
Whole Grains
Whole-grain foods such as cereals and rice may be viable food options for diabetics because these can be rich sources of fiber, says the American Diabetes Association.
