A Diabetes Diet?
There's no diabetes diet, per se, but healthy eating habits are indeed a major part of managing diabetes. But what exactly does a healthy diet mean? It can take a little time to figure out how and what to eat when you are first diagnosed with diabetes, but catching on fast is an essential part of staying well.
A diabetes diet isn't a prescriptive plan. It's more about portion control, controlling your blood sugar, and eating a wide variety of nutritious foods.
A dietitian or certified diabetes educator can help you figure out an eating plan that fits your needs.
As you're learning how to manage food and meals, there are some basic guidelines you can follow:
- Try to get a variety of vegetables and fruits.
- Eat whole grains instead of refined, processed grain products.
- Eat lean meats, like chicken and turkey. Limit red meats to once a week.
- Try to eat more fish, as it has heart-healthy fats.
- Use monounsaturated oils, such as olive oil, for cooking
- Limit sweetened beverages. Drink water instead.
- Reduce the amount of fats and sugary foods you eat.
These tips, plus regular exercise, can help you lose weight, and keep your blood sugar levels under control.
