A diabetic diet is a meal and eating plan designed to provide people with the proper nutrients while also regulating their blood sugar level. It is a nutrient dense diet that is also low in fat and calories. Some of the key elements that define a diabetes diet are a reliance on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Why we call it a diabetic diet, the truth is, a diabetic diet is really more of a standard healthy diet than anything. Everyone can benefit from adhering to a diabetic diet.
A Diabetic Diet
A diabetes diet is designed to help you utilize the insulin to its maximum efficiency. That is why one of the cornerstones of a diabetic diet is to eat three square meals a day. Portion sizes are determined by your size and physical activity.
Recommended Foods
The real secret to a good diabetic diet is the food that you eat. A good diabetic diet should have healthy carbohydrates, foods rich in dietary fiber, good fats, and fish.
1. Healthy Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates play a key role in your diabetic health, mostly because carbohydrates affect your blood sugar levels. Sugars (simple carbohydrates) and starches (complex carbohydrates) are reduced into blood glucose which your body uses for energy. Make sure to avoid processed foods and stick to whole foods:
- Fruits
- Veggies
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Low fat dairy products
2. Foods Rich in Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is the part of plant foods that are indigestible by the human body. Fiber affects how your body is able to digest food and helps to regulate your blood sugar levels. Some of the best high-fiber foods include:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Legumes
- Whole Grains
3. Fish and Foods Rich in Good Fats
Fish turns out to be one of the best things a person can eat in general, but especially for people with diabetes. Fatty fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which can prevent heart disease and inflammation. You can also get good fats in foods other than fish:
- Avocados
- Nuts
- Canola oil
- Olive oil
- Peanut Oil
