Diabetes Food Pyramid

If we look at the food pyramid, we can see how it can be used to satisfy all family members. The pyramid is a guide to what foods to eat and what portions should have. The pyramid is divided into groups which usually are displayed from top to bottom. To emphasize the importance of a diabetic diet, discuss them from top to bottom. Diabetics deal with carbohydrate intake. Diabetics should eat a smaller number of portions of each group, from the bottom upwards.

Bread, grains, cereals and pasta

This is an important source of energy. These foods provide complex carbohydrates and are a good choice of low fat. This group includes rice, bread and cereals. Choose whole grain or whole wheat bread instead of white bread. Be aware that some loaves of wheat bread is really white with color.

6 to 11 servings of these foods in a day.

Diabetics may include starchy vegetables in this group. Beans and starchy vegetables are in this group because they have similar carbohydrate counting as one serving as a slice of bread. For this reason they

Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are major sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, potassium and other nutrients. They are also low in sodium. Fruit juices generally should not be counted. Only 100% fruit juice should be included in this group. Serving sizes vary from cup to 1 cup.

3 to 5 servings of these foods in a day.

Diabetics may use the recommendation of the food pyramid

Beans, eggs, lean meat and fish

Meat, poultry and fish are sources of protein, iron and zinc. Lean meat, fish and dried beans are low in sodium. This group includes chicken, Turkey, fish and beef. Fat should be trimmed from meat. A serving of three ounces is the size of a deck of cards.

The Food Pyramid suggests 2 to 3 servings of cooked meat

Diabetics should limit their intake to 4-6 ounces for the whole day

Dairy products

Dairy products provide protein and vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. The choices are low fat milk and low-fat yogurt and skim milk cheese.

The Food Pyramid suggests 2 to 3 servings each day.

Diabetics may use the recommendation of the food pyramid

Fats and sweets and alcohol

Foods in this group should be the smallest percentage of your daily diet. They tend to provide calories and little nutrition. The desserts are high in sugar. Some of the foods in this group are salad dressings, oils, cream, butter, margarine, sugar, soft drinks, candies and sweet desserts.

Following the suggestions of the food pyramid can provide a healthy diet for the whole family. Some should be taken to provide for the needs of diabetics. As we have seen, a healthy diet for diabetics is usually a healthy diet for the rest of the family.

In general, we should choose low-salt, low sugar, low fat nutritious foods. Consider the need for diabetics to reduce the consumption of carbohydrates and very few other considerations are necessary.