Diabetes is a condition that prevents your body from properly processing blood sugar, explains FamilyDoctor.org. As such, if you are diabetic, you need to properly regulate your diet in order to avoid elevating your blood sugar levels. An effective way of doing so is to note the glycemic index of a specific food type prior to eating. The higher the glycemic index, the more quickly that food raises blood sugar levels, notes the American Diabetes Association.
Cereals and Grains
Certain kinds of cereal such as corn flakes or rice puffs have a glycemic index that may exceed 70, notes the American Diabetes Association. Grains such as rice and whole wheat may have a glycemic index rating between 56 and 69. This means that you may still incorporate these into your diet. But you should consume them in small serving sizes six or more times a day, notes MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health.
Fish
Fish is generally a good type of food to include in your diabetic diet, notes MayoClinic.com. Fish, such as salmon and tuna, are particularly good because they contain low amounts of fat and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish is also excellent for your heart as well. Eating two to three servings of fish is highly recommended, explains MedlinePlus.
Fruits
Most fruits have a glycemic index of 55 or less. This is especially true for citrus fruits such as oranges. If you aren't already eating high amounts of fruits in your current diet, you should definitely consider doing so. This is because fruits are chock-full of vitamins and minerals. You can also get loads of fiber from most fruits, explains MayoClinic.com. Fiber can help you better regulate your blood sugar.
Meat
Eating red meat will not excessively elevate your blood sugar levels. However, doing so elevates your chances of developing heart and circulatory problems due to the high amounts of saturated and trans fats found in most forms of meat, explains MayoClinic.com. As such, you should limit the amount of red meat in your diet.
Non-Starchy Vegetables
Non-starchy vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli are considered low glycemic index food, explains the American Diabetes Association. They can provide you with a rich source of fiber and other nutrients. You should eat between three to five servings of these vegetables per day, notes MedlinePlus.
Poultry
Poultry meat such as chicken and turkey are generally better for you than red meat. Aside from being unlikely to elevate your blood sugar, poultry meat may be a good source of protein. You should ea about two to three servings of poultry per day, notes MayoClinic.com.
Starchy Vegetables
Despite having a glycemic index that may exceed 70, starchy vegetables can still be part of your diet, note the American Diabetes and MedlinePlus. However instead of eating these in large serving sizes, starchy vegetables may be consumed in smaller serving sizes eaten more frequently throughout the day.
