Planning meals with diabetes does not have to be complicated. One easy approach, promoted by the American Diabetes Association, is the plate method. Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli or peppers, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with carbohydrate foods such as whole grains, beans or starchy vegetables.
- Choose water or unsweetened drinks instead of sugary ones.
- Pick whole grains and high-fiber foods more often than refined ones.
- Read nutrition labels to see how many carbohydrates are in a serving.
Food needs are personal. They depend on your health, your activity and any diabetes medicines you take, so ask your doctor or a registered dietitian to help you build a plan. Tell your care team if you notice frequent low or high blood sugar readings.
