No single diet is right for all people with diabetes.
In fact,a plan designed just for you might be best.
This article explains how to balance carbs, fat, and protein.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
It also shows you what a day’s worth of food looks like on a 1,200-calorie diet.
Theyimpact blood sugar more than other nutrients.Some people with diabetes need to track their carb intake.
This is especially true if you takeinsulinat mealtimes.
There are three types of carbs:
Watch out forwhite, refined, processed, and sugary foods.
These carbs can cause weight gain and sharp spikes in blood sugars.
When thinking about carbs, consider portions as well as jot down.
Protein:Proteinis a macronutrient and another form of energy for the body.
It boosts immunity, wound healing, and muscle recovery.
It can also help you feel full longer.
With a calorie-controlled diet, it’s important to choose lean protein.
It has fewer calories and less fat.
They also contain carbs.
Protein has four calories per gram.
Some studies show that a higher-fat, higher-protein breakfastcan reduce hemoglobin A1Cin people with diabetes.
Fat:Fat is another macronutrient.
It helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, can reduceinflammation.
They are the building blocks of hair, skin, and nails.
These fatty acids also help support brain health.
Fat calories can add up quickly.
One gram of fat has nine calories.
For example, this calorie level may be low enough to disrupt your metabolism.
This number of calories may not give you enough carbs for your medication dosage.
And it may not preventhypoglycemiaor low blood sugar.
However, 1200 calorieswillmeet the energy needs ofsomepeople with diabetes.
If you’ve been prescribed a different diet, there are manymeal plansto choose from.
If you need more variety, there are many nutritious foods it’s possible for you to enjoy.
A simple online search will help you calculate their nutritional value.
you’re able to use a recipe nutrition calculator to take the guesswork out of meal prep.
Just input the recipe you’d like to make and read the nutrition label.
you’re free to also use it for side dishes, snacks, and drinks.
The calculator will show you healthier options.
The calculator is a useful tool when making out your shopping list.
You’ll have a clearer idea of which foods are lower in calories, fat, and sugar.
Having a little knowledge before you hit the store can help you make better decisions.
What is a Good Meal Plan for Diabetes?
It should focus on whole foods, like non-starchy vegetables and lean protein, rather than processed foods.
Summary
A meal plan can help you make healthier food choices as you manage diabetes.
For some people, a 1,200 calorie per day diet is a good option.
Balancing lean protein, carbs, and fats is important to keep your blood sugar safe and steady.
Avoiding processed foods and sugar will also benefit you.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Carb counting.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Diabetes meal planning.
