Diabetes and the Foods You Eat
The foods you eat are made of three basic nutrients:
carbohydrates, fat, and protein. All of these nutrients provide
calories (energy) that allow your body cells to function
properly.
Why do I need a meal plan?
A balanced meal plan is important for everyone. If you have
diabetes, eating properly balanced meals and snacks is even more
important. Food is an important tool that you can use to control
diabetes and stay healthy. Carbohydrate counting adds variety to
your meals and still allows you to control your blood glucose. Ask
a registered dietitian how carbohydrate counting can be
incorporated into your lifestyle.
Eating a balanced meal plan can help you:
- Control blood glucose (sugar) levels
- Control cholesterol levels
- Control blood pressure
- Maintain a healthy weight or reduce your weight, if you are
overweight
- Prevent low blood glucose reactions
- Reduce the risk of health problems caused by diabetes
How can I plan a balanced diet?
You will need to plan the amount of foods that you eat with a
registered dietitian or other qualified health care provider.
Together, you can develop an eating plan that is right for you.
This plan will be based on such factors as your:
- Blood glucose levels
- Cholesterol and triglyceride (a type of blood fat) levels
- Blood pressure levels
- Height
- Weight
- BMI (body mass index)
- Age
- Activity level
- Amount and type of any medications you are taking
Do I have to count every bite?
No. But you will need to be aware of what and how much you are
eating and the right portions of foods. The number one goal of the
meal plan is to control blood glucose levels with an even
distribution of carbohydrates at meals and snacks.
Your health care provider can help you manage your blood glucose
levels by referring you to a nutrition professional who can develop
meal plans with you.
Here are some basic guidelines:
- Follow the meal plan set with your health care provider.
- Eat a variety of foods every day to get all the nutrients you
need.
- Eat only the amount of food in your meal plan. Eat about the
same amount of food each day. Be aware of portion sizes.
- Do not skip meals.
- Eat meals and snacks at regular times every day. Distribute
meals 4 to 5 hours apart, with snacks in between. If you are taking
a diabetes medication, eat your meals and take your medication at
the same times each day.
- Maintain a healthy weight. If you need to lose weight, cut down
on your portion sizes but do not skip meals. Exercise to maintain
and/or achieve a healthy weight.