What Are the General Guidelines for a Diabetes Diet?

How to control your blood glucose levels through your diet and how to monitor them to prevent hypoglycemia (insulin shock). Well-Connected Report: Diabetes Diet

General Goals For most people with diabetes, diet control is the key to managing this complicated disease. It is also extremely difficult. Patients should meet with a professional dietitian to plan an individualized diet that takes into consideration all health needs. The current state of the diabetic diet is in flux, and at this time, there is no single diet that meets all the needs of everyone with diabetes. There are some constants, however: People with both types of diabetes are at risk for a number of medical complications, including heart and kidney disease. Dietary requirements for diabetes must take these disorders into consideration. Importantly, they should employ diets that protect the heart and aim for healthy lipid (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels and control of blood pressure. People with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetics on insulin or oral medication must focus on controlling blood glucose levels by coordinating calorie intake with medication or insulin administration, exercise, and other variables. Adequate calories must be maintained for normal growth in children, for increased needs during pregnancy, and after illness. For overweight type 2 diabetics who are not taking medication, both weight loss and blood sugar control are important. A reasonable weight is usually defined as what is achievable and sustainable, rather than one that is culturally defined as desirable or ideal. People with diabetes should adhere to the general rules for healthy eating that apply to everyone: Limit fats (particularly saturated fats and trans-fatty acids). Limit dietary cholesterol. Consume plenty of fiber-rich foods in the form of whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. Limit protein. Reduce salt.