Meal Planning Ideas For Diabetics

1. Have a balanced meal at intervals when you are hungry.

In the past, our grandparents told us that we should eat three square meals every day. However, from recent research, nutritionists and dietitians have found out that it is actually better to eat frequent small meals throughout the day. This will also prevent a person from overeating-which is a no-no especially for diabetics! Our parents were right when they said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. We need food for energy and to function properly throughout the day. Every morning when we wake up, our body is starving after the long hour break from our sleep. A healthy breakfast is necessary for everyone and not just for diabetics. If a person skipped breakfast, there is a threat of overeating. This practice is very unhealthy and not to mention dangerous for the diabetic who needs to maintain a constant glucose level.

Wheat Bread

2. Reduce or better yet eliminate any soda and artificial juice intake.

These drinks are sugar-laden and are positively harmful for the diabetic. Water is the best beverage. It is calorie- and sugar-free.

3. Steer clear of fried foods. Deep fried foods are the worst.

Boiled and grilled foods are a healthier alternative.

4. Get rid of fat and skin from meat and poultry.

These are dripping with bad cholesterol and are really not healthy at all whether or not you have diabetes. Eradicate them as much as possible.

5. Limit mayonnaise and white sugar from your diet.

6. Limit heavy and creamy sauces and gravies.

7. Limit the amount of sweets and syrups.

The following is a sample meal plan for any day of the week:

BREAKFAST

1 egg or 1 slice cheese or 1 tablespoon peanut butter

2 slices whole wheat toast or

1/2 cup cereal and 1 slice of whole wheat toast

1 small orange or 1/2 small banana

1 teaspoon soft margarine (omit if having peanut butter)

1/2 cup milk (skim, 1%, or 2%)

Water, tea or coffee as desired

LUNCH

2 thin slices lean meat or cheese or ½ cup water-packed canned fish

2 slices whole wheat bread

1 teaspoon soft margarine or 1 tablespoon low fat mayonnaise

1 small apple or pear or 1 cup grapes

Lettuce and celery sticks

1/2 cup milk (skim, 1%, or 2%) or ½ cup yogurt sweetened with aspartame

Tea, coffee, water, or sugar-free soft drinks as desired

SUPPER

1 small fish fillet or 1 broiled meat patty or 3 slices chicken

1 baked potato or 1/2 potato and 1 slice whole wheat bread

1/2 cup peas or carrots or turnip

Broccoli, green beans, cauliflower or tossed salad as desired

1 orange or 1/4 cup canned fruit or 1 peach

1 teaspoon soft margarine or

2 tablespoons low calorie salad dressing

1/2 cup milk (skim, 1%, or 2%) or ½ cup plain yogurt

Tea, coffee, water or sugar-free soft drinks as desired

EVENING

1 slice cheese

1 slice whole wheat bread or

3 arrowroots or 2 digestive cookies

1 teaspoon soft margarine (if needed)

1/2 cup milk (skim, 1% or 2%) or 1 package light hot chocolate

Remember, meal planning should be an enjoyable experience. There are many specialty cookbooks out in the market nowadays to aid the zealous foodie. However, before plunging into any kind of diet, it is best to consult with your doctor first.

Meal Planning Ideas For Diabetics

If you or someone you love has diabetes, it's important to get educated. Diabetes is very treatable, but requires knowledge and care. Diabetic Info was started to help you get the information you need to deal with diabetes, such as diabetic lifestyle tips [http://diabeticinfo.org/lifestyle-tips-for-the-healthy-diabetic.html] for you or your loved one with diabetes.

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