Diabetes Diet List of Foods

Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas does not release insulin properly or even at all in some cases. A list of foods for a diabetes diet is used to offer options that will not cause sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. These foods are used in a proper balance of carbs, fats and proteins.

Whole Grains

Whole grains have a lot of fiber in them, so they do not cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels. Some examples of these are oat bran, wheat bran, brown rice and quinoa.

Fats

There are good fats that are unsaturated and there are bad fats that are saturated. Fats that are acceptable include seeds, nuts, olive oil and canola oil.

Beans

Beans are high in fiber and they also have a good amount of B vitamins. Some examples of these include peas, soy beans, lentils and chick peas.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruit and vegetable choices should be lower on the glycemic index, which means they won't spike your blood sugars quickly. Some examples of these include apples, strawberries, plums, oranges, asparagus and broccoli.

Protein

Protein sources that are acceptable are meats, dairy products and fish. But they should be low in cholesterol and fat. Some specific examples are chicken breast, lean beef, low-fat dairy, fish and tofu.

Sweeteners

Refined sugars such as table sugar cause a sharp spike in blood sugars and are not recommended on a diabetic diet. Artificial sweeteners that are acceptable include aspartame, saccharin and sucralose.