A diabetic diet plan is used by individuals who need to control their blood sugar. Unlike other diets,there is no specific diet plan printed for this way of eating. Each diabetic must follow a diet plan which is designed specifically for them in order to best control glucose levels.

A diabetic diet plan is best complied by working with a nutritionist or a dietitian. These individuals are trained to know the best combination of foods for a particular medical need. While there is no specific written diabetic diet, the methods of eating for diabetics often center around monitoring the intake of carbohydrates, as these types of foods have the greatest impact on blood glucose. http://diabetes.webmd.com/diabetes-diet-healthy-diet-basics Some diabetics must also monitor protein intake and fat intake due to other medical conditions.

The glycemic index is used to rank foods according to how they effect blood sugar. It considers the type of carbohydrate and what it does to the glucose level when eaten. Foods which have a low glycemic index rating have a lower impact on the blood sugar level than those with high ratings. People who need to control blood sugar may be advised to focus on low glycemic foods more than those with higher rankings. Foods which have a high glycemic index should be eaten in small quantities.http://www.diabetesnet.com/diabetes_food_diet/glycemic_index.php#axzz0tNh1G74c

Carbohydrate counting may help a diabetic maintain their blood glucose at proper levels. The counting of carbs works in conjunction with food choices. The total grams of carbohydrates are important in accounting for the nutrition consumed. http://diabetes.webmd.com/diabetes-diet-healthy-diet-basics?page=2 As a carbohydrate or sugar based food is consumed, an individual following a diabetic diet plan should use the item as a substitute for a carbohydrate which was planned. If the original planned menu is not followed, attempt to remove the equivalent number of carbohydrates to offset the item eaten which was not planned. http://diabetes.webmd.com/eating-well-with-diabetes-6/diabetes-diet?page=2

It is important to discuss how to count carbohydrates in conjunction with a diabetic diet plan. The dietitian can assist with this and can explain the impact on sugar and how to adjust your counting methods based on insulin levels being injected or other diabetes medication. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/diabetes-diet/DA00027/NSECTIONGROUP=2

A diabetic diet plan can include any food as long as the portion of the item is considered in relation to other foods eaten. Sugars can be consumed but must be in controlled quantity so as not to cause a peak in blood sugar levels. If carbohydrates are consumed in quantity for one food item, remaining foods should be from proteins to offset the impact to the glucose level. http://diabetes.webmd.com/eating-well-with-diabetes-6/diabetes-diet?page=2

The American Diabetic Association offers guidance on their website to assist with determining proper service sizes for different foods. http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/planning-meals/diabetes-food-pyramid.html The association also offers a list of ten foods which could be considered the superfoods of the diabetic diet. These items include:http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/diabetes-superfoods.html?utm_source=RightRail&utm_medium=SitePromotion4&utm_campaign=FOOD

• Beans
• Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
• Citrus Fruit
• Sweet Potatoes
• Berries
• Tomatoes
• Fish High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Whole Grains
• Nuts
• Fat-free Milk and Yogurt

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor to determine if a diabetic diet is safe for individual dieting needs.