The diabetic diet is usually recommended for those who struggle with their blood sugar levels. Some foods will drive your blood glucose levels too high, while others help you keep them on an even keel. Knowing how certain foods affect your body is the key to making the diabetic diet work for you.

Basic Guidelines for Healthy Eating

Sticking to the diabetic diet is not as tough as you might think. The wide variety of foods that are good for you means you can make healthy eating choices at every meal. The following tips can help you stick to the diabetic diet:

• Focus on healthy carbohydrates. These include vegetables, whole grains, beans and peas, low-fat dairy products, and some fruits.
• Choose high-fiber snacks. A handful of nuts, a sprinkle of wheat bran, and most healthy carbohydrates are good for adding fiber to your diet.
• Keep it lean. Choose lean meats, such as chicken or fish, over red meats. Opt for egg substitutes, skim milk, and low-fat options in the dairy aisle.
• Avoid solid fats. Cut out as much butter, shortening, and margarine from your diet as possible.
• Go artificial. Opt for artificial sweeteners, such as Splenda, to sweeten baked goods. Look for diet sodas and sugar-free snacks to satisfy your cravings.
• Pay attention to serving sizes. Most servings at restaurants are enough for two people. Keep in mind that no matter how good you are about healthy eating, portions that are too big can undermine your goals and drive your blood sugar levels up.
• Consider using an exchange list. To be absolutely certain of sticking to your diabetic diet, talk to your doctor or dietitian about using an exchange list. This list makes it easy to plan your daily menus and keep portions at the correct size.
• Don't deprive yourself. If you have a serious craving for something sweet, you can have it. Just remember that moderation is the key to any healthy eating plan. To keep your blood sugar on the straight and narrow, replace a few carbohydrates in your diet with your dessert indulgence.

Healthy Eating and Exercise Make the Difference!

Stick to your diabetic diet and exercise regularly to help keep your blood sugar within a normal range. Test your glucose levels every day to be sure your efforts are paying off, and work closely with your doctor to make adjustments if necessary. A little healthy diligence goes a long way toward great diabetes management!