Diabetes is more than a disease affecting your blood sugar. You must also think about your weight, the number of carbohydrates you consume and the calories you take in. Managing all of this might sound difficult, however, knowing the right kind of foods to eat makes it easier. It is not about self-deprivation, but improving your health and quality of life.
Vegetables
Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower and spinach, are high in fiber and low in calories. They are also low in saturated fat, which means they improve your resistance to insulin. Eating these vegetables affect your blood sugar levels little due to the fiber they contain. Four to five cups a day should be your goal; 1/2 cup of cooked or 1 cup of raw equals one serving. Avoid vegetables like potatoes, rice and pasta because these are high in calories. To find the best vegetables for you, use the glycemic index. This tool helps you locate foods with the lowest amount of carbohydrates. Look for vegetables with a rating of 55 or under for maximum benefits.
Fruit
Fruit contains the same nutrients as vegetables, and is low in fat and calories. The difference between the two are the antioxidants hiding in fruit; these antioxidants protect the nerves, eyes and heart, all areas of the body that diabetes can adversely affect long-term.
The bad news is the natural sugar fruit has. This sugar differs from the sugar found in cookies and cakes, but nevertheless, you cannot eat as much fruit as you can vegetables. Three to four servings a day is sufficient, unless your doctor specifies otherwise.
Fiber-Rich Cereal
HelpGuide.org explains that eating breakfast every morning is imperative to steady your blood sugar levels, and high-fiber cereal is an easy way to do this. You will feel full for a longer period of time, and the fiber helps maintain your glucose. MayoClinic.com explains the body does not easily absorb fiber, so the more fiber-rich foods you consume, the better.
Chicken Breast
Protein is an important part of any diet, but it must be the right protein. Chicken breast -- skinless -- offers a high serving of protein minus the calories, saturated fat and cholesterol steaks and burgers contain. Turkey breast is even lower in all of the above.
