Food processors may market sugar-free or low-carb versions of food products to people with diabetes that detract from the need to regulate their nutrient intakes. Managing which foods to eat on a daily basis keeps you in charge of your diabetic diet and helps reduce the frequency of health complications. Put real food back into your menus by choosing consistent meal portions and by balancing the amount of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in them. Opt for low fat items among all the food groups, to control your weight and the daily demands of diabetes.
Animal Protein
Satisfy your hunger and your nutritional needs at once by finding nutrient-dense foods to eat, or those that provide multiple nutrients within low fat and calorie boundaries. Sole, haddock, light chicken or turkey meat, beef round steak and pork loin have lower fat contents than oily fish, dark poultry meat and marbled meat cuts. The National Institutes of Health, or NIH, suggest starting with lean fish, poultry and meats, and preparing them to suit a diabetic diet. That means removing skin and visible fat strips and baking, braising or grilling without added oil or butter.
Milk Products
People with diabetes can become deficient in nutrients like calcium and vitamin D without a steady source such as dairy products. The NIH recommends only lowfat or nonfat dairy items for diabetic diets. Additionally, you should select plain, unsweetened yogurt and add your own fruit, to control sugar intake. Cheese is not considered the best food to eat, due to its fat content. Soy mik and tofu substitutions for dairy products contain a few extra grams of carbohydrates and must be worked into your diet according to your doctor's advice.
Starches
Starchy foods are good for people with diabetes in limited, consistent quantities. The American Diabetes Association, or ADA, lists whole grains and starchy vegetables as real foods to eat to maintain carb levels. Low-sugar cereals, with less than 6 g of sugar content, hearty brown rice, popcorn and whole-wheat baked goods belong at the foundation of a diabetic diet. Lentils, peas, corn and dry cooked beans of all kinds provide satisfying and nutritious meals that you can eat every day.
Non-Starchy Foods
Again, cooking methods determine how healthy non-starchy vegetables and fruits are for people with diabetes. Eat these foods raw, baked or steamed rather than sauteed in fats, counsels the NIH. Spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes and carrots provide important fiber, vitamins and minerals. Berries, pears and peaches offer large amounts of fiber and vitamin C as well.
