Diabetic diet

A diabetic diet is a healthy eating plan that helps people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels and prevent or delay complications. There is no one-size-fits-all diet for diabetes, but some general principles can help you choose foods that are good for you. Here are some of the best foods to eat and avoid with diabetes, based on the web search results:

- Foods to eat: Fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, eggs, beans, lentils, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fruits, and vegetables are some of the foods that can provide you with nutrients, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. These foods can help lower inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and regulate blood sugar levels. Some examples of these foods are salmon, spinach, almonds, chia seeds, eggs, black beans, oats, yogurt, berries, and broccoli¹².

- Foods to avoid: Foods that are high in added sugars, trans fats, sodium, and refined carbohydrates can worsen your blood sugar control and increase your risk of heart disease and other complications. These foods include sugary drinks, baked goods, candy, chips, crackers, white bread, white rice, processed meats, fast food, and fried foods¹²³.

To plan your meals and snacks, you can use different methods such as the plate method or carb counting. The plate method involves filling half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one-fourth with lean protein, and one-fourth with whole grains or starchy vegetables. You can also add a serving of fruit or dairy on the side. Carb counting involves keeping track of the amount of carbohydrates you eat at each meal and snack and adjusting your insulin dose accordingly. You can use food labels or online tools to help you count carbs⁴.

A diabetic diet can be flexible and enjoyable if you know how to balance your food choices and portions. You can also consult a registered dietitian for more personalized advice and guidance.