If you have diabetes, it means that your blood contains irregular amounts of glucose, or blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes is typically present at birth, while type 2 diabetes may appear at any time in your life. Women may also develop diabetes temporarily during pregnancy. Regardless of the type of diabetes you have, proper medical treatment and lifestyle changes are important for managing the disease and preventing complications. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Whole grains are also low-glycemic, meaning they have a milder impact on your blood sugar levels than refined grains, such as white flour. Adopting a low-glycemic diet may lower high blood sugar and delay hunger cues, making it easier to manage your weight. For best results, replace enriched breads, pasta, cereals and snack foods with whole-grain equivalents most often. Examples of nutritious whole grains include millet, oats, whole wheat, bulgur, brown rice, wild rice, barley and popcorn.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide a broad assortment of nutrients, many of which help your body defend itself against infections and disease. Most fresh fruits and vegetables are low-glycemic and provide nutritious alternatives to sugary sweets and snack foods. Nonstarchy vegetables, such as bell peppers, leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage, are foods you should "eat more," according to the American Diabetes Association. Since they are low in calories and carbohydrate content yet rich in nutrients and fiber, increasing your intake can help you fill up on healthy foods without experiencing complications. Choose whole, fresh fruits and vegetables over juices, dried fruit or canned fruit stored in heavy syrup, most often.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats support nutrient absorption, brain function and skin health. Diabetes patients should limit trans fats and saturated fats found in red meat, whole milk, fried foods and processed snack foods and opt instead for omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated varieties. Valuable sources of monounsaturated fats include olive, canola and peanut oils, nuts, seeds and avocados. Omega-3 fats, which also help alleviate inflammation and promote positive heart health, are present in flaxseeds, walnuts and fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut and sardines. Since diabetes increases your risk for high cholesterol and heart disease, incorporate omega-3 fat sources into your diet routinely.
Lean Protein
Protein supplies amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue. Protein-rich foods also enhance tissue repair, brain function and fullness between meals. Since protein-rich foods digest slower than carbohydrates and contribute fewer carbohydrates, aim for balanced meals and snacks that contain carbohydrates and lean protein. Optimum protein sources for diabetes patients include soy, fish and low-fat dairy products. You may also enjoy extra-lean red meat, skinless white-meat poultry, legumes and egg whites.
