High blood glucose levels characterize diabetes, regardless of whether it is type I, type II or gestational. The goal of diabetes management is to maintain blood glucose levels within acceptable limits. Although medications can be used to help maintain glucose levels, dietary management is the most important component. Diabetics must pay attention to the foods they eat as well as to the amount of food that they consume.
Carbohydrate
Sugar, starch and fiber are all classified as carbohydrates. Starchy vegetables like peas, corn and potatoes, dried beans and grains are all sources of carbohydrates. Diabetics need to pay close attention to the amount of carbohydrates they eat in order to manage their blood glucose levels effectively. A registered dietitian can help diabetic individuals determine the appropriate servings of carbohydrates for their specific diet plan.
Fat
Fat is also an important dietary component for diabetics to consider. A diagnosis of diabetes automatically increases an individual's risk of developing heart disease, a disease for which dietary fat intake is a major contributing factor. Saturated fats are considered the unhealthiest type of fat and are mostly found in animal products. Trans fats are also considered to be unhealthy options. They are found in products such as packaged snacks, shortening and stick margarine. Healthier sources of fat are avocados, nuts, and oils such as canola and olive. These provide polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that can actually help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Protein
Protein foods are an excellent source of energy. Foods high in protein can increase the feeling of fullness and can help keep hunger at bay longer. Good sources of protein are lean cuts of meat such as tenderloin and sirloin, fish and seafood, and dried beans. Although meat does not contain carbohydrate, it is important for diabetics to remember that plant based protein sources do contain carbohydrate. This carbohydrate should be counted with their overall totals.
Sweets and Alcohol
Sugar does dramatically raise glucose levels; however, this does not mean that diabetics have to avoid sugar forever. Sweets can be incorporated into a healthy diabetic diet as long as they are limited and only consumed occasionally. When sugar-containing foods are eaten they should be substituted for other carbohydrate containing foods. Artificial sweeteners can be used in place of sugar and other sweeteners in many recipes and beverages. Diabetic individuals should also pay close attention to alcohol consumption. Consumption of alcohol can dramatically influence blood glucose levels, especially if consumed in excess. According to the American Diabetic Association, diabetic individuals that do choose to partake of alcohol should consume it only in limited quantities and should be sure to always pair it with food.
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