Choosing what and when to eat can be a daunting experience for a diabetic. The nature of the disease impacts the body's ability to regulate insulin -- the hormone responsible for controlling blood glucose, or sugar. Nutrition choices can either increase blood glucose levels or help stabilize them. Living with high blood glucose levels may lead to complications down the road such as heart, kidney or nerve problems. Getting diabetic diet help is the first step in preserving those vital organs.
Step 1
Make your food choices count. Foods that are high in empty calories and fat, such as candy bars or fried foods, will increase your blood sugar levels. Reach for vegetables, fruits and lean protein to satisfy your hunger.
Step 2
Increase your intake of plant-based dietary fiber, which is filling and can help you to stabilize your blood sugars. Whole grains such as whole wheat and bran also provide cardiovascular benefits. Avoid starchy fibers like potatoes or refined flour products, as they will increase your blood sugars.
Step 3
Select healthy carbohydrates that provide vitamins and minerals without the blood glucose impact. Vegetables, fruits, legumes and low-fat dairy are low-calorie choices with benefits of micronutrients. Use a glycemic index, if necessary, to learn which foods impact your blood sugar the most.
Step 4
Limit fats, including cholesterol. If you must cook with or consume fats, keep them minimal and use room-temperature fat, such as canola or olive oil. Solid fats, including those found in butter and cheese, are high in calories and may lead to heart disease as well as high blood sugars. Limit cholesterol intake to less than 200 mg daily.
Step 5
Eat every meal you should. Especially if you are using medication to control your blood sugar, skipping meals can be dangerous. Eating similar portions of carbohydrates at the same time daily will balance your blood sugar and may help ease labile fluctuations.
Tips and Warnings
- Fill at least half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables before adding protein, fat and starch.
