Over one million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed each year, according to 2010 information from the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes places you at risk for additional health complications such as high blood pressure and heart disease. If you have diabetes and heart disease, meeting with a dietitian may help you plan the best possible diet. While there is no steadfast diabetes diet, combining foods with the best nutritional benefits may help manage diabetes and heart complications.
Lean Meats
Lean meats provide needed protein without added cholesterol or calories. Choose red meat without large amounts of visible fat along the edge of the cut. Round steak, sirloin, flank steak, T-bone steak or cubed steaks are often lower in fat, according to the American Diabetes Association. Choose poultry without skin, or remove the skin before preparing. White meat poultry is lower in fat than dark meat; choosing poultry breasts are a good option.
Low-Fat Dairy
Dairy products contain protein, vitamins and carbohydrates. You may choose dairy products as part of your daily diabetes eating plan; however, dairy products may contain saturated fat, which is bad for the heart. Choose dairy products that are made with low-fat or skim milk for a heart-healthy option. Consider low fat yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese slices or ice cream.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diabetes diet. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease suggests choosing raw or steamed vegetables when possible and eating vegetables without added butter. Instead, consider adding herbs or salt-free and fat-free spices to prepared vegetables to reduce overall fat intake. Canned and frozen vegetables are also appropriate. Consider eating fruits raw or cooked without adding extra sugar to reduce calorie and carbohydrate intake. The NIDDK suggests choosing whole fruit over fruit juices for better nutrition when possible.
Whole Grain
Whole grains contain nutrients that are heart-healthy, including fiber which may help regulate blood pressure and heart health, according to MayoClinic.com. Whole grains are also good carbohydrate choices for diabetes management. Consider whole grain breads, pastas or tortilla shells. Enriched whole grain cereals and oatmeal are also good choices. Additional types of whole grains include brown and wild rice, millet and buckwheat, which can be found in many food varieties.
