If you have diabetes, it is important to make healthy food choices so your blood sugar levels stay within a healthy range. Choose foods that provide fuel without a lot of excess calories or unhealthy fats. Low-fat and low-sugar foods are recommended if you have diabetes. Consuming a variety of nutritious meals in moderate amounts at consistent mealtimes is important to your health after a diabetes diagnosis, according to MayoClinic.com.
Lean Beef & Chicken
Lean beef and chicken are healthy meat choices to limit fat intake, according to the American Diabetes Association. These meats provide iron and protein to keep your body strong. Trim any visible fat off meats before cooking. Also, rather than frying meats, cook them by roasting, grilling, baking or broiling.
Walnuts, Almonds & Olives
Walnuts, almonds and olives contain fats that boost heart health, says the National Diabetes Education Program. The omega-3 fatty acids in these foods work to keep arteries clear of buildup from cholesterol. Small servings of these healthy foods are acceptable snacks if you have diabetes.
Yogurt & Cottage Cheese
Low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese are healthy foods for diabetics, says the American Diabetes Association. These foods are easy to eat for lunch or a snack. They are typically low-calorie and also provide calcium to help keep bones strong.
Beans & Lentils
Beans and lentils are good foods for healthy meals if you have diabetes, according to MayoClinic.com. These foods can be used in soups, salads, casseroles and chili. They have high amounts of fiber and will help the body have energy and help maintain regularity of the digestive system.
Vegetables
Vegetable-based meals, such as split pea soup, salad or a raw vegetable plate are healthy choices if you have diabetes, says the American Diabetes Association. Some healthy vegetables include broccoli, spinach, asparagus, peppers, carrots, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, celery and cauliflower. Vegetables add fiber to the diet. Dark green leafy vegetables also add vitamins C, K and A to the diet, according to the Center for Young Women's Health of the Children's Hospital Boston.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains whole grains and a high level of fiber, says the National Diabetes Education Program. Oatmeal is a healthy breakfast food. It is filling and does not cause sudden spikes in your blood sugar level. Choose natural oatmeal and avoid oatmeal that contains flavorings, which often contain unhealthy fats and chemicals.
Fruit
Fruits such as apples, pears, prunes or oranges are healthy snacks if you have diabetes, says the American Diabetes Association. Eat fruits daily to gain vitamin C in the diet. To avoid a sudden spike in blood sugar level from fruits, eat just 1/2 of the fruit at a time.
Salmon, Herring & Mackerel
Salmon, herring and mackerel are healthy meal choices if you have diabetes, says the American Diabetes Association. These fish have healthy omega-3 fats. Eating fish regularly rather than red meat will help keep your heart healthy and limit overall fat intake.
