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question

What should I consider when creating a diabetes meal plan?

American Diabetes Association
American Diabetes Association
answer

If you have diabetes, you are the most important person to consider when choosing a healthy meal plan. Your plan should reflect your goals, needs, tastes, and lifestyle. Your provider and dietitian may recommend certain goals, but you will be the one who chooses a meaningful and realistic plan.

Keep in mind that a healthy meal plan for you is a healthy meal plan for anyone—with or without diabetes. You don’t have to worry about following some strange diet involving weird foods that no one else in your family will want to touch. You can choose foods that will benefit everyone in your family. Often, family members will not even realize that they are eating a “diabetes meal plan.”

Your meal plan should make it easier—not harder—to manage your blood glucose: 

  • Include foods you like and that are important to you.
  • Take into account your daily activities and schedule.
  • Be flexible.
  • A plan should help you keep your blood glucose levels within your target range.
  • A plan should help you reach and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Choose foods that will help prevent diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and cancer.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.