Using a food guide for people with diabetes

Why use a food guide for diabetes?

Carbohydrate is the nutrient that most affects your blood sugar level. The more carbohydrate you eat at one time, the higher your blood sugar level will rise. Spreading carbohydrate intake throughout the day helps keep your blood sugar levels within your target range. A food guide for diabetes can help you plan your diet accordingly.

Eating the recommended number of servings from each food group every day gives you the proper amount of nutrients to meet your needs and reduces your risk for heart disease and other conditions. Eating regular meals can help you spread carbohydrate intake throughout the day.

Test Your Knowledge

1. A food guide for people with diabetes:

1. Lists special foods I should eat.
2. Outlines the way to count the nutrients in my diet.
3. Guides the planning of daily meals and snacks.

Continue to How to use a food guide in your diet for diabetes
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Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: February 10, 2008
Medical Review:	Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator
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