A Diabetic Diet Meal Plan That's Not For Weight Loss

If your doctor is concerned about your weight and the effect it has on your diabetes, your diabetic nutritionist may place you on a calorie-restricted diet, recommending fewer than the typical 2,000 calories per day. If you do not need to reduce your weight, the meal-planning process should still be essentially the same without the strict calorie requirement; aim to remain within the average 2,000 calorie per day recommendation.

Fruits and Vegetables

Start with fruits and vegetables to fill half your plate. Choose a variety of each through the course of the day. Eating fruits and vegetables from each of the major color groups ensures that you maximize your vitamin intake and get the most nutritional benefit possible. Each color group contributes a specific combination of vitamins and minerals to your diet.

Protein

Select a lean protein to fill half of the remaining space, taking up one-quarter of your total plate. Pork, fish and boneless, skinless chicken should top your protein list since they are lowest in fats and cholesterol. Alternatively, beans can replace a meat serving. Even if you are not trying to reduce your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and heart health should still be a priority.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates should fill the remaining quarter of the plate. Choose from whole grain, high-fiber carbohydrates for the most gradual blood sugar impact possible. Whole grain and complex carbohydrates break down slowly, providing a slow rise in your blood glucose. Choose a single carbohydrate choice snack two hours after each meal and before bedtime for a total of three snacks during the day.

Fats and Sugar

Limit the added fats and sugar in your meals to only what is necessary. Refined sugars cause a rapid spike in your blood glucose readings, which can have long-term side effects. Added fats such as high-fat oils and butter aggravate cholesterol and cardiac concerns.

Treats

Sweets and treats are not completely off the menu. Have a berry and low-fat yogurt parfait or a low-fat, sugar-free pudding with sugar-free topping. Choose fresh fruit cobbler with no added sugars for another way to satisfy a sweet tooth. Small servings of dark chocolate are another alternative. Dark chocolate has antioxidant properties, giving you an added health benefit with your sweet treat.