Far from being restrictive, a diabetic food plan is a healthy diet from which anyone would benefit, according to MayoClinic.com. A successful diabetic diet is full of nutrients and low in simple sugars, fat and calories. The emphasis is on whole grains, fruits and vegetables in proportions that help you control your blood glucose level. Consult a health care professional, such as your doctor or dietitian, to personalize your meal plan and calorie requirements. Athletes, for example, have different caloric requirements than average adults.
Step 1
Try different methods of monitoring your carbohydrate intake to see which one fits your personality and lifestyle. Sticking to a diet method that doesn't work for you will only cause frustration.
Step 2
Count carbohydrates to determine your exact sugar intake. Carbohydrate counting works well for an organized person who likes numbers. Use the nutrition facts labels and USDA food guides to calculate your carbohydrate intake at each meal. Tracking all your carbohydrates allows you to set limits and take precise control.
Step 3
Use your dinner plate as a quick visual reference to manage your diet. The Create Your Plate diet uses the plate as a portion guide to separate foods into starchy, non-starchy and meat or meat substitute sections. This method doesn't require any special tools or math skills, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Step 4
Exchange one food for another using the diabetes exchange diet. If you want specific yet flexible recommendations regarding exactly what to eat, this diet would work well for you. The exchange list published by the University of Arkansas groups foods that contain approximately the same amount of carbohydrates and calories, allowing you to easily exchange one food for another.
Step 5
Re-evaluate your menu plan with your health care provider on a regular basis. Your doctor or dietitian will help you make changes if they are warranted by your health condition. For example, a woman who becomes pregnant or increases her exercise level may need to change her caloric intake.
Tips and Warnings
- Encourage everyone in your family to share your new, healthier diet.
- Consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.
