During your primary school years, you may have learned about the major food groups and how they interacted with your body to produce the energy it needs to function. If you are a diabetic, it is important that you review the major food groups and what sort of impact they have on your body. The type of food you eat influences your total body health, so you need to make sure, especially if you are on a diabetes diet, that you are eating healthy foods and that you are getting foods from each of the food groups.

Fruits

The fruit group is one of the most important food groups that you should be familiar with. Fruit is filled with carbohydrates, and this makes your blood sugar level increase, so exercising portion control as you eat from this group is essential.

Vegetables

This group is perfect for many on a diabetes diet because many of the items in the vegetable group do not contain carbohydrates, which mean that you can eat much more of them. The items that do contain carbohydrates are generally legumes, such as beans and peas. Vegetables like spinach or broccoli do not have any carbohydrates and are very good for your body. Any good meal should contain an extensive amount of vegetables to ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to function properly.

Grains

Starches are any food that contains a good amount of carbohydrates, such as cereals, pasta, crackers, and generally any item made with a grain. Contrary to popular belief, if you are on a diabetes diet, you should not avoid these foods, but you should learn to eat them in moderation. Eating too many of these foods will cause your blood sugar to rise, but not eating any will not give your body enough fuel to move. Instead of avoiding starches, try to eat them in moderation, and be sure to keep your portions well-spaced out throughout the day.

Meats and Proteins

Meat and meat substitutes are very important, not just for someone on a diabetes diet, but for everyone. These foods are full of protein, which helps to keep your muscles fit and your immune system in tip-top shape. Diabetics should not eat just meats and proteins, as they need other foods to get them throughout the day, and meats are often high in calories. Someone on a diabetes diet should choose foods that are good for their heart as well as their sugar levels in order to avoid heart problems later.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are very important as they help to build and keep the bones in excellent condition. Unfortunately, most dairy products are also full of carbohydrates, so someone on a diabetes diet should make sure that they watch their intake from this food group very carefully.

Fats and Oils

Things like butter and mayonnaise taste good, but they contain a lot of calories and fats. We do need to have some fat in our diets in order to remain healthy, but, like everything, it needs to be moderated.

Bistro M.D. is practiced at providing meals for someone on a diabetes diet that are both delicious and nutritious, having the right amount of food from all of the food groups. We'll take the time to talk with you about your individual dietary needs, then we'll create meals that are delicious and nutritious. We'll even ship them right to your door. Take a moment to contact us today.