People with diabetes, especially those who are newly diagnosed, often find themselves wondering what kind of food they should eat, or if there is a specific diabetes diet. The short answer is that as with anybody, diabetic or not, there is no one exact diet that is perfect for all. However, eating healthy food should be a priority, along with a well-rounded diet and plenty of exercise.

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you are going to have to deprive yourself for the rest of your life. It’s all about keeping a balanced diet and making smart food choices, which over time will become second nature! In a nutshell, a diabetes diet should simply be rich in nutrient and low in saturated fats and calories. Whole foods should be eaten – lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It’s a very healthy way of eating that would truly benefit anyone.

Medical Nutrition Therapy

A diabetes diet is medically known as medical nutrition therapy (MNT.) It isn’t meant to restrict what you eat, just to control your portions and eat at regularly scheduled mealtimes so that your body falls into a rhythm. It’s a lifestyle and way of eating that would be good for anyone, regardless of if they have diabetes or not.

Meeting with a nutritionist recommended by your doctor is a good first step into understanding how your diet can help make you healthier and stronger. The nutritionist will ask about your history, health, and current eating patterns and begin to build a play specific for you and your needs. It will both help you to control your blood sugar (glucose) and manage your weight if that is necessary.

Eating for diabetes is meant to keep your blood glucose at a steady level. When a person eats an excessive amount of calories and fat, blood glucose levels rise. When that rises, its brings with it a host of other issues that are notoriously associated with diabetes, such as nerve, kidney, or heart damage.

Diabetes Diet Recommendations

Here are the top foods to eat if you have diabetes, or are anyone just looking to get healthier.

• Foods rich in fiber, especially plants.
• Lean protein such as healthy fish.
• Monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats that come from sources like avocados and nuts.
• Healthy carbohydrates like fruit and legumes.

And, foods to avoid when trying to eat right:

• Saturated fats that come from animal proteins like hamburgers, hot dogs, and bacon.
• Trans fat found in junk food like chips and baked goods.
• Cholesterol-rich foods that come from animal products.
• Food high in sodium, and avoid using excessive salt.

With a little guidance from a nutritionist and smart food choices, your diet can greatly enhance your diabetes treatment and leave you living a healthier lifestyle than you ever thought you could!