Diabetes refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes is lifelong, while type 2 diabetes may develop at anytime. Gestational diabetes coincides with pregnancy. A healthy diabetes diet, according to MayoClinic.com involves "eating a variety of nutritious foods in moderate amounts" and eating meals at regular time intervals. While most any food can fit within a diabetes-friendly diet, certain foods provide exceptional benefits.
Fruits and Non-Starchy Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide an assortment of dietary benefits. As fiber and water-rich foods, fresh produce promotes fullness between meals and healthy digestive function. The American Diabetes Association describes non-starchy vegetables, which have a mellowing impact on your blood sugar levels and are low in carbohydrates and calories, as one of the few food types people with diabetes should "eat more" of. Incorporate a variety of non-starchy vegetables, such as bell peppers, leafy greens, mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage, into your meals and snacks routinely. The antioxidants in colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes and leafy greens, help your body protect itself from infections and disease. Choose whole fruits over juices and dried fruit, which are higher in sugar and lower in nutrients, most often.
Starches
Starches, such as breads, pasta, cereal, rice, baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, legumes and butternut squash, provide rich amounts nutrients, fiber and glucose -- your body's primary energy source. Since diabetes causes your body to react abnormally to glucose, consuming consuming starches that have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels, such as whole grains and starchy vegetables, in place of refined starches, such as white bread and instant potatoes, is important. MayoClinic.com recommends whole grains and starchy vegetables as prime fiber sources, which is important for reducing you risk for heart disease and improving blood sugar irregularities associated with diabetes. Examples of diabetes-friendly starches include baked or sweet potatoes -- with skin, lentil or split-pea soup, 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, old fashioned oatmeal, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, wild rice, pearled barley and quinoa.
Lean Protein Sources
Protein provides amino acids -- the building blocks of muscle tissue. Protein also enhances brain function, tissue repair, satiation between meals and blood sugar balance. Since red meat, processed meats and whole milk products may increase your risk for cholesterol problems and heart disease, consume lean sources, such as skinless poultry, egg whites, low-fat dairy products, tofu and legumes, most often. MayoClinic.com also suggests that diabetes patients eat "heart-healthy fish," such as albacore tuna, halibut, salmon, mackerel, sardines, lake trout, flounder or herring, at least twice each week. When preparing lean poultry and fish, use low-fat cooking methods, such as baking or broiling, rather than frying. Nutritious seasoning options include natural herbs and spices, low-fat cream sauces and plant-based oils, such as olive or safflower oil.
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