Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood sugars. When left uncontrolled, high blood sugars lead to serious complications, including heart disease, kidney disease and blindness, according to the International Diabetes Federation. The goal in treatment for diabetes is to promote normal blood sugars. Primary treatment usually involves diet, exercise and medication. When it comes to blood sugar and diet, eating a variety of healthy foods from all of the food groups is recommended.
Starches
Starches are the primary source of carbohydrates in the diet, and carbohydrates in food increase blood sugar. However, starches are allowed and make up the bulk of the diet for diabetes, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders, or NIDDK. Starches include foods such as bread, crackers, rice, pasta, pretzels, corn, potatoes and peas. For better blood sugar control, people with diabetes should eat more whole-grain starches. The fiber in whole-grain foods slows digestion and the release of sugar into the bloodstream. Examples of whole-grain starches include whole wheat bread products, brown rice, whole-grain cereal and whole wheat pasta.
Fruits
Fruits are also allowed on the diabetic diet, even though they act as another significant source of carbohydrate. Healthy fruit choices include whole fresh fruit, unsweetened canned and frozen fruit and dried fruit. The whole fruit contains fiber, which, in addition to aiding in blood sugar control, helps with weight management by controlling hunger.
Milk and Yogurt
Diabetics should choose low-fat and nonfat milk and yogurt products. People with diabetes have a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease than people who do not have diabetes. Some milk and yogurt products contain high amounts of saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels, a risk factor for heart disease. Milk and yogurt products that diabetics are allowed to eat include skim milk, nonfat plain yogurt, nonfat sugar-free fruited yogurt, 1-percent fat milk and low-fat plain yogurt.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Some meat products contain significant amounts of saturated fat. Diabetics should eat lean meats, such as white meat poultry, fish, lean ground meat, beef eye of round, ham and pork chops. Other meat and meat substitutes diabetics are allowed to eat include eggs, tofu, low-fat cheese, lean luncheon meats, shellfish and canned tuna packed in water.
Nonstarchy Vegetables
People with high intakes of nonstarchy vegetables have lower rates of heart disease and some cancers, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Diabetics should include a variety of nonstarchy vegetables in their diet for good health. Examples include broccoli, spinach, carrots, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, green beans, peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, mushrooms, leafy greens and asparagus.
Fats and Oils
Diabetics are allowed to have fats and oils, but should use them sparingly, according to NIDDK. As a concentrated source of calories, excessive intake can lead to weight gain. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are the preferred choice for people with diabetes and include olive oil, vegetable oil, margarine, peanut butter and walnuts.
