Taking Your Health into Your Own Hands: 4 Easy Tips for Diabetes Menu Planning

One of the biggest concerns many people have when they learn they have diabetes is how they are going to manage it. Often the first thing that pops in their heads is the thought that they’ll be sentenced to a life of rigid and bland foods.  Or they go the opposite direction and think, “I can eat what I want as long as I watch the sugar.” 

Neither idea is correct.

A lifestyle conducive to proper management of diabetes doesn’t have to overly strict but you do have to follow certain guidelines.  You don’t have to give up tasty meals; you just have to learn to balance your choices with moderation and healthy foods.  Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can “cheat” all you want and it won’t catch up with you.  Eating as you should is crucial for your health and well-being. 

Keep in mind that a lot of your food choices will be determined by the type of diabetes you have.  If you have type-1 diabetes, your insulin dosage will depend in part on what you eat.  If you have type-2, your diet may very well be the way you control your blood sugar.

Though a registered dietician is the best source of knowledge when it comes to diabetes care through food choices, here are a few points to help with your diabetic menu planning.

Variety is important in a diabetic menu.  Otherwise, you’ll quickly tire of tedious repetitive menus.  Who wouldn’t?  There are tons of delicious diabetes recipes that incorporate a wide variety of foods.

Eat smaller portions to keep your weight in check.  Many experts believe eating 5-6 small meals a day as opposed to three large ones is the best way to keep your blood sugar at an even keel.

Don’t go overboard with healthy fruits.  Yes, fruits are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants but some are also high in sugar.  Minimize those with a high glycemic index such as watermelon and pineapple.

Watch your alcohol content.  And always have your drink with a meal.  Avoid sugary mixed drinks and be aware that while alcohol can spike your glucose level, too much can actually cause your blood sugar to plummet.  It’s best to limit your alcohol consumption to 1-2 glasses a day at the most.

The good news is a healthy diabetic menu is also healthy for the entire family.  While managing diabetes can sometimes feel like a full-time job, making healthy eating a lifestyle rather than “something you have to do for your diabetes” will make the crucial task much easier in the long run.