Tips for Planning a Diabetes-Friendly Diet

Dieting with diabetes doesn’t have to be rocket science. All it takes is a few simple adjustments and replacements for key aspects of your meal, and you’ll be well on your way to better health. Check out our tips for planning a diabetes-friendly diet below.

Portion Control

When you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, a healthy lifestyle is key. Much of weight loss is governed by how much you eat. Always follow the diabetic meal plan your doctor gives you. It should have portion sizes that fit your particular needs on the sheet. Alternately, some apps measure portion size, so you don’t have to whip out the measuring cup. Sometimes, a portion size is as simple as “a fistful of x kind of food,” so don’t get too caught up in the math. You’ll do just fine. Now that you know where to look for information on portion control, what can you eat? Find out more below.

Recommended Foods

There are a couple of things you’ll want to put on your plate immediately after you’re diagnosed. Leafy greens are a prime example—so kale, spinach, and green beans are an exceptional part of your diet. Furthermore, good fats like healthy salmon, mackerel, and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which improve heart health. Don’t forget your fruits, especially apples, pears, and peaches. Whole grains and legumes are ideal, and avocados, nuts, and even canola are perfect as a dietary supplement. Now that you know what to eat, what can’t people with diabetes eat? Read on to find out.

Foods To Cut

We must put a nonnegotiable here: cut all sugar and anything that contains too much of it. Sodas, syrups, and candy shouldn’t be a part of your diet in any capacity anymore. They can spike your blood sugar, leading to a lengthy hospital stay. In addition, fried foods with higher-fat cut meats have a ton of calories and carbs, and you should find alternatives. For instance, if you prepare your chicken, bake it instead of frying it. You should do the same for fish. You also want to avoid foods with high-fat content, such as ribs and pork. As a person who needs to manage your condition effectively, these foods are detrimental in the long run. These are some of the best tips we can give you if you want a diabetes-friendly diet.

In short, managing your diabetes with your diet is a simple endeavor. It takes discipline, but you can do it. If you take all the proper steps and work closely with your health care team, you’ll live a happy and healthy life.

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