It is important to know that you do not need special foods in your diet. The food that is good for the whole family is also good for you. However, you should begin eating less fat, sugar and salt, and begin eating more vegetables, fruit and complex carbohydrates, such as beans and whole grains.

You should eat a wide variety of foods from each food group every day. In particular, pay close attention to food groups that contain sugars or starches.

For example, bread, cereals, grains, starches, dried beans, fruit and milk contain carbohydrates, the part of food that most affects blood sugar.

Carbohydrate Choices

You should limit these foods to 3-4 servings per meal and 1-2 servings per snack:

  • Bread (Starch)
    (About 80 calories)
    Serving size: 1 slice of bread, 1 tortilla
    Or
    ½ cup cooked rice, oatmeal, corn, potatoes, beans/lentils, popcorn
  • Fruit
    (About 60 calories)
    Serving size: ½ cup juice
    Or
    1 cup cut banana, melon, apple, berries, grapes or orange
  • Milk
    (About 80 calories)
    Serving size: 1 cup fat free or low fat

Vegetables

Eat 3-5 servings per day of green, leafy vegetables, carrots

Protein: Meat, Fish, Poultry, Cheese, Eggs

Low fat and lean is best. Keep portions no larger than the palm of your hand.

Fats/Oils

Use sparingly, especially if you want to lose weight. Choose to use vegetable fats.

Sweets/Alcohol

Avoid sweets and alcohol until you can see your dietitian or can attend diabetes classes.