1. Gimme Some Sugar, Honey
It should be obvious that a diabetic should limit her sugar intake, but cookies and cakes aren't the only culprits. Fruits and natural sugars, such as honey, can also raise blood sugar, and you should limit these if you are on a diabetic diet. Although, studies show artificial sweeteners don't affect blood sugar by themselves, if you are diabetic, some artificially sweetened foods can still affect your blood sugar because of the carbohydrates and proteins that are in the foods. Since it is a myth that diabetics can't eat some fruits, if you count your carbohydrate intake, you should be able to have any fruit you want. If the carb count is 15 grams, it doesn't matter what type of fruit it is, just make sure you adjust the serving size to accommodate your allowed carb intake.
2. Go Light on the Starch
Starchy foods, such as potatoes, bread and pasta can raise your blood sugar due to the high carbohydrate count. These foods should be limited to fit within your 15 grams of carbs in each serving. Some starchy vegetables should also be limited, such as peas, corn, dried beans, squash and sweet potatoes. Instead of simple carbohydrates, processed and broken down, opt for complex carbohydrates. Some good carbs are whole grains, such as multi-grain bread, brown rice and whole-wheat pasta, which are better than the refined choices.
3. Get to the Fat of the Matter
The body needs some fat, but the quality of the fat is important. If you're on a diabetic diet, you should limit animal fats, such as beef and pork and trans-fatty acids, such as partially-hydrogenated oil. Opt for monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are in some fruits and vegetables. Diabetics should also avoid fried foods, since they have a high fat and sodium content.
4. Just Say No to Processed Foods
Processed foods contain trans fats, refined sugars, simple carbohydrates, sodium and other things that sabotage a healthful diet. Diabetics should avoid processed foods, such as most packaged foods, fast foods and many premade meals. Sometimes, the dangers in these foods are hidden, so it's important to try to avoid them all together.
5. I'll Drink to That
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sweetened drinks if you have diabetes. Alcohol can lower your blood sugar to a dangerous level, which affects your liver. It can also intensify the symptoms of your disease. Drinking a caffeinated beverage with your meal can cause your blood sugar to swing out of control. Obviously, sweetened juices and sodas contain a high processed sugar content that will spike your blood sugar.
