If you have diabetes (or pre-diabetes), eating too much can make your blood glucose too high. If your blood glucose goes too high, you can get sick. Your blood glucose can also go too high or drop too low if you don’t take the right amount of diabetes medicine. If your blood glucose stays high too much of the time, you can develop:

* Heart disease
* Eye problems
* Foot problems
* Kidney disease
* Other problems.

You can also have problems if your blood glucose gets too low (this condition is called hypoglycemia).

Because of all these reasons, keeping your blood glucose at a healthy level will prevent or slow down diabetes problems. One way of controlling your blood glucose level is by maintaining a diabetic diet. This diabetic diet begins by understanding the Diabetes Food Pyramid.

The Diabetes Food Pyramid

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

The Diabetes Food Pyramid is a general guide of what and how much to eat each day as part of your diabetic diet.
It is similar to the Food Pyramid you see on many food packages. The Diabetes Food Pyramid is divided into six groups. You should eat more foods from the largest group at the base of the pyramid and less from the smaller groups at the top of the pyramid.

The number of servings needed every day is not the same for everyone, so for a diabetic diet, a range of servings is given to ensure you get the foods you need for good health.

The food groups and suggested servings per day as part of this diabetic diet include:

* Grains, beans, and starchy vegetables: These are good source of B vitamins and fiber — 6 or more servings per day.

* Fruits: These contain vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, and fiber — 3 to 4 servings per day.

* Vegetables: These provide vitamins A and C, folate, and fiber — 3 to 5 servings per day.

* Milk: This is a source of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D — 2 to 3 servings per day.

* Meats and meat substitutes: These are a source of iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein — 2 to 3 servings per day.

* Fats, sweets, and alcohol: The foods at the tip of the pyramid should be eaten in small amounts. Fats and oils should be limited because they are high in calories. Sweets are high in sugar and should only be eaten once in a while.

How Much Should I Eat?

As stated, in a diabetic diet, the number of servings needed every day is not the same for everyone. The following presents some diabetic diet guidelines with regards to calories and number of servings based on your gender, body type, and fitness goals.

Have about 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day if you are:

* A small woman who exercises
* A small or medium woman who wants to lose weight
* A medium woman who does not exercise much.

Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day:

Have about 1,600 to 2,000 calories a day if you are:

* A large woman who wants to lose weight
* A small man at a healthy weight
* A medium man who does not exercise much
* A medium to large man who wants to lose weight.

Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 1,600 to 2,000 calories a day:

Have about 2,000 to 2,400 calories a day if you are:

* A medium to large man who does a lot of exercise or has a physically active job
* A large man at a healthy weight
* A large woman who exercises a lot or has a physically active job.

Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 2,000 to 2,400 calories a day:

For whatever category you fit into, ask your healthcare provider or dietician to create a diabetic diet meal plan that fits:

* The way you usually eat
* Your daily routine
* Your diabetes medicines.

Starches
Starches are:

* Bread
* Grains
* Cereal
* Pasta
* Starchy vegetables like corn and potatoes.

They give your body energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whole-grain starches are healthier because they have more vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Eat some starches at each meal. People might tell you not to eat starches as part of a diabetic diet, but that is not correct. Eating starches is healthy for everyone, including people with diabetes.

Examples of starches that may be part of a diabetic diet include:

* Bread
* Pasta
* Corn
* Potatoes
* Rice
* Crackers
* Tortillas
* Beans
* Yams.

Starch Serving Size
If you have more than one serving at a meal, you can choose several different starches or have two or three servings of one starch.

Starch Suggestions
Here are some healthy ways to eat starches as part of your diabetic diet:

* Buy whole-grain breads and cereals.

* Eat fewer fried and high-fat starches, such as regular tortilla chips and potato chips, French fries, pastries, or biscuits. Try pretzels, fat-free popcorn, baked tortilla or potato chips, baked potatoes, or low-fat muffins.

* Use low-fat or fat-free yogurt or fat-free sour cream instead of regular sour cream on a baked potato.

* Use mustard instead of mayonnaise on a sandwich.

* Use the low-fat or fat-free substitutes such as low-fat mayonnaise or light margarine on bread, rolls, or toast.

* Eat cereal with fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1 percent) milk.

The tip of the Diabetes Food Pyramid contains fats, sweets, and alcohol. Limit the amounts of fats and sweets you eat. They have calories, but not much nutrition. Some contain saturated fats and cholesterol that increase your risk of heart disease. Limiting these foods will help you lose weight and keep your blood glucose and blood fats under control.

Alcohol should not be consumed during pregnancy.

Examples of fats that may be part of a gestational diabetes diet include:

* Salad dressing
* Oil
* Butter
* Margarine
* Avocado
* Olives.

Examples of sweets include:

* Regular soda
* Ice cream
* Cake
* Cookies
* Pie
* Candy.

Fats and Sweets Serving Size

What If I Have a Sweet Tooth?
It’s okay to have sweets once in a while as part of your diet. Try having:

* Sugar-free popsicles
* Diet soda
* Fat-free ice cream or frozen yogurt
* Sugar-free hot cocoa mix.

Other tips:

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

* Share desserts in restaurants.
* Order small or child-size servings of ice cream or frozen yogurt.
* Divide homemade desserts into small servings and wrap each individually. Freeze extra servings.
* Don’t keep dishes of candy in the house or at work.

Remember, fat-free and low-sugar foods still have calories. Talk with your diabetes educator about how to fit sweets into your meal plan.

Blood Glucose Levels

You may be asking, “So what should be my target blood glucose level?” For most people, target blood glucose levels should be:

* Before meals — 90 to 130
* 1 to 2 hours after the start of a meal — less than 180.

To keep you blood glucose at a healthy level:

* Eat about the same amount of food each day
* Do not skip meals or snacks
* Take your medicines at the same times each day
* Exercise at about the same times each day
* Eat your meals and snacks at about the same times each day.

Eating the same amount at the same time each day is important. This is because your blood glucose goes up after you eat. If you eat a big lunch one day and a small lunch the next day, your blood glucose levels will change too much.

Also, keep your blood glucose at a healthy level by eating about the same amount of carbohydrate foods at about the same times each day. Carbohydrate foods (also called carbs) provide glucose for energy. Examples of carbohydrate foods include:

* Starches
* Milk
* Fruits
* Starchy vegetables (such as corn)
* Sweets.

Measuring Food

To ensure your food servings are the right size for your diet, use:

* Measuring cups
* A food scale
* Measuring spoons.

The Nutrition Facts label on food packages tells you how much of that food is in one serving.
Weigh or measure foods to make sure you eat the right amounts.

These tips will help you choose the right serving sizes as part of your diet:

* Measure a serving size of dry cereal or hot cereal, pasta, or rice and pour it into a bowl or plate. Use that same bowl or plate the next time you eat that food, and fill it to the same level.

* For one serving of milk, measure 1 cup and pour it into a glass. See how high it fills the glass. Always drink milk out of that size glass.

* Meat weighs more before it’s cooked. For example, 4 ounces of raw meat will weigh about 3 ounces after cooking. For meat with a bone — like a pork chop or chicken leg — cook 5 ounces raw to get 3 ounces cooked.

* One serving of meat or meat substitute is about the size and thickness of the palm of your hand or a deck of cards.

* A small fist is equal to about 1/2 cup of fruit, vegetables, or starches like rice.

* A small fist is equal to 1 small piece of fresh fruit.

* A thumb is equal to about 1 ounce of meat or cheese.

* The tip of a thumb is equal to about 1 teaspoon.

Summary

Here are key points to remember about maintaining a healthy diet for gestational diabetes:

* For someone on this diet, what, when, and how much you eat all affect your blood glucose level.

* You can keep your blood glucose at a healthy level if you:

– Eat about the same amount of food each day.
– Eat at about the same times each day.
– Take your medicines (if applicable) at the same times each day.
– Exercise at the same times each day.

* Every day, choose foods from these food groups: starches, vegetables, fruit, meat and meat substitutes, and milk and yogurt. How much of each depends on how many calories you need a day.

* Limit the amounts of fats and sweets you eat each day as part of your diet.

* Eat a healthy diet or follow a meal plan for the duration of your pregnancy to improve your health and to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. If you need to make changes to your diet or meal plan to keep your glucose level in the healthy range, your healthcare provider will help.


Gestational Diabetes Diet << 2 << 3 << 4

The next level of the Diabetes Food Pyramid contains vegetables. Vegetables give you vitamins, minerals, and fiber, with very few calories.

Examples of vegetables in a gestational diabetes diet include:

* Lettuce
* Broccoli
* Vegetable juice
* Peppers
* Carrots
* Green beans
* Salsa
* Chilies
* Greens.

Vegetable Serving Sizes

If you have more than one serving at a meal, you can choose a few different types of vegetables or have two or three servings of one vegetable.

Suggestions for Including Vegetables in Your Diet

Here are some healthy ways to eat vegetables as part of your diet for gestational diabetes:

* Eat raw and cooked vegetables with little or no fat, sauces, or dressings.

* Try low-fat or fat-free salad dressing on raw vegetables or salads.

* Steam vegetables using a small amount of water or low-fat broth.

* Mix in some chopped onion or garlic.

* Use a little vinegar or some lemon or lime juice.

* Add a small piece of lean ham or smoked turkey instead of fat to vegetables when cooking.

* Sprinkle with herbs and spices. These flavorings add almost no fat or calories.

* If you do use a small amount of fat, use canola oil, olive oil, or soft margarines (liquid or tub types) instead of fat from meat, butter, or shortening.

Fruit

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Fruit is at the same level of vegetables on the Diabetes Food Pyramid. Fruit gives you:

* Energy
* Vitamins
* Minerals
* Fiber.

Examples of some types of fruit in a gestational diabetes diet include:

* Apples
* Fruit juice
* Strawberries
* Bananas
* Raisins
* Oranges
* Mangoes
* Guava
* Papaya.

Fruit Serving Sizes

If you have more than one serving at a meal, you can choose different types of fruit or have two servings of one fruit.

Suggestions for Adding Fruit to Your Diet
Here are some healthy ways to eat fruit as part of your diet:

* Eat fruits raw or cooked, as juice with no sugar added, canned in their own juice, or dried.

* Buy smaller pieces of fruit.

* Eat pieces of fruit rather than drinking fruit juice. Pieces of fruit are more filling.

* Drink fruit juice in small amounts.

* Save high-sugar and high-fat fruit desserts such as peach cobbler or cherry pie for special occasions.

Milk and Yogurt

The next highest level on the Diabetes Food Pyramid is milk and yogurt. Milk and yogurt give you:

* Energy
* Protein
* Fat
* Calcium
* Vitamin A
* Other vitamins and minerals.

Examples of Milk and Yogurt Serving Sizes

Because you are pregnant, have four to five servings of milk and yogurt each day as part of your gestational diabetes diet.

Milk and Yogurt Suggestions

Here are some healthy ways to eat or drink milk and yogurt:

* Drink fat-free (skim or nonfat) or low-fat (1 percent) milk
* Eat low-fat or fat-free fruit yogurt sweetened with a low-calorie sweetener
* Use low-fat plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream.

Meat and Meat Substitutes

The second-highest level of the Diabetes Food Pyramid includes meats and meat substitutes. The meat and meat substitutes group includes:

* Meat
* Fish
* Poultry
* Eggs
* Cheese
* Tofu.

Eat small amounts of some of these foods each day.

Meat and meat substitutes help your body build tissue and muscles. They also give your body energy and vitamins and minerals.

Examples of meat and meat substitutes include:

* Chicken
* Fish
* Beef
* Eggs
* Peanut butter
* Tofu
* Cheese
* Pork.

Meat and Meat Substitute Serving Sizes

*Two to three ounces of meat (after cooking) is a serving about the size of a deck of cards.

Suggestions for Meat and Meat Substitutes

Here are some healthy ways to eat meat or meat substitutes as part of your diet:

* Buy cuts of beef, pork, ham, and lamb that have only a little fat on them. Trim off extra fat.

* Eat chicken or turkey without the skin.

* Cook meat or meat substitutes in low-fat ways such as:

– Broiling
– Grilling
– Stir-frying
– Roasting
– Steaming
– Stewing.

* To add more flavor, use vinegars, lemon juice, soy or teriyaki sauce, salsa, ketchup, barbecue sauce, and herbs and spices.

* Cook eggs with a small amount of fat or use cooking spray.

* Limit the amounts of nuts, peanut butter, and fried chicken that you eat. They are high in fat.

* Choose low-fat or fat-free cheese.


Gestational Diabetes Diet << 2 << 3 << 4

* Bread
* Grains
* Cereal
* Pasta
* Starchy vegetables (such as potatoes or corn).

They give your body energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whole grain starches are healthier because they have more vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Eat some starches at each meal. People might tell you not to eat starches as part of a gestational diabetes diet, but that is not correct. Eating starches is healthy for everyone, including people with gestational diabetes.

Starch types that may be part of a gestational diabetes diet include:

* Bread
* Pasta
* Corn
* Potatoes
* Rice
* Crackers
* Tortillas
* Beans
* Yams.

Starch Serving Sizes

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

If you have more than one serving at a meal, you can choose several different starches or have two or three servings of one starch.

Suggestions for Including Starch in Your Diet
Here are some healthy ways to eat starches as part of your diet:

* Buy whole-grain breads and cereals.

* Eat fewer fried and high-fat starches such as regular tortilla chips and potato chips, French fries, pastries, or biscuits. Instead, try:

– Pretzels
– Fat-free popcorn
– Baked tortilla or potato chips
– Baked potatoes
– Low-fat muffins.

* Use low-fat or fat-free yogurt or fat-free sour cream instead of regular sour cream on a baked potato.

* Use mustard instead of mayonnaise on a sandwich.

* Use the low-fat or fat-free substitutes such as low-fat mayonnaise or light margarine on bread, rolls, or toast.

* Eat cereal with fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1 percent) milk.


Gestational Diabetes Diet << 2 << 3 << 4

The menu shown here may not be the right menu for you — this menu is not meant to take the place of your healthcare provider’s advice on menus and meal plans. Talk with your healthcare provider after looking at this menu for more specific information about the right meal plan for you.

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Breakfast

Hard boiled egg, toast, grapes, and milk:

* 1 egg, hard-boiled
* 1 slice whole-wheat bread
* 1 tsp. canola-based, trans-fat-free margarine
* 1/3 pound grapes (any kind)
* 12 fluid ounces nonfat skim milk

Fat: 11 g; calories: 394; protein: 22 g;
Total carbohydrate 56 g;
Exchanges: 1.3 fat; 1.3 milk; 1.6 fruit; 0.8 meat; 0.8 bread

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Mid-Morning Snack

Half a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with milk:

* 1 slice whole-wheat bread
* 1 Tbsp. peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
* 1 Tbsp. reduced-sugar jelly or reduced-sugar jam
* 8 fluid ounces nonfat skim milk

Fat: 9.7 g; calories: 276; protein: 14.5 g
Grams carbohydrate: 3.6 g
Exchanges: 0.5 other carbohydrates; 1.6 fat; 0.9 milk ; 0.4 meat; 0.8 bread

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Lunch

Cheese, tomato, and black bean pita with milk:

* 1 large whole-wheat pita
* 1/2 cup cooked black beans
* 1/2 cup fresh tomato (chopped)
* 1 ounce low-fat sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
* 1 Tbsp. salsa
* 2 tsp. olive oil

Blend the last five ingrediants and place inside the pita. Serve with 8 fluid ounces nonfat skim milk.

Fat: 17.7 g; calories: 547; protein: 29.2 g
Grams carbohydrate: 71 g
Exchanges: 2.8 fat; 0.9 milk; 0.5 vegetable; 1.0 meat; 3.4 bread

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Mid-Afternoon Snack

Apple and peanut butter:

* 1 medium apple with peel, cored and sliced
* 1 Tbsp. peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
* 12 fluid ounces nonfat skim milk

Fat: 9.2 g; calories: 295; protein: 15.8 g
Grams carbohydrate: 41 g
Exchanges: 1.6 fat; 1.3 milk; 1.3 fruit; 0.4 meat

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Dinner

Grilled chicken with pineapple, rice, and green beans:

* 3-ounce chicken breast (boneless/skinless, raw)
* 4 ounces pineapple rings, canned in juice
* 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted
* 1 Tbsp. sesame oil, dark
* 2 tsp. soy sauce, low-sodium
* 1/2 cup green beans, cooked
* 1/4 cup instant rice, uncooked
* 1 tsp. cornstarch
* 1/4 pound fresh strawberries

Preparation

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Place chicken breast in shallow container; combine 1/2 pineapple juice, toasted sesame seeds, sesame oil, cornstarch, and soy sauce in bowl; pour over chicken breast. Place half the rings from the pineapple over the chicken.

Refrigerate 1 hour or overnight.

Remove chicken and pineapple from marinade and discard marinade; grill or broil chicken breast and pineapple until cooked through (turning as needed). Cook rice as indicated on package. Prepare green beans as indicated on package.

Serve with strawberries for dessert.

Fat: 16.2 g; calories: 523; protein: 23 g
Grams carbohydrate: 60 g
Exchanges: 2.4 lean meat; 2.8 fat; 1.8 vegetable; 1.8 fruit;1.1 bread

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: Daily Totals

Total fat: 71.3g; total calories: 2,100; total protein: 104.1g
Grams carbohydrate: 164 g
Exchanges: 10.1 fat, 4.2 milk, 4.7 fruit, 5.1 bread, 2.6 meat, 2.4 lean meat, 2.3 vegetable, 0.5 other carbohydrates

Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu: “Free” Food and Snack Options

“Free” foods are those that have fewer than 20 calories. You can often eat free foods without having to account for them in your meal plan. Water is considered a “free” food; you can drink as much water as you want. In fact, most healthcare providers recommend that you drink a lot of water when you are pregnant.

These “free” foods and drinks include certain:

* Raw vegetables
* Drinks
* Condiments
* Seasonings.

Raw Vegetables

You can have up to 2 cups of these “free” raw vegetables without having to count the calories or carbohydrates into your meal plan.

These raw vegetables include:

* Celery
* Cucumber
* Endive
* Mushrooms
* Peppers
* Radishes
* Spinach
* Cabbage (all varieties)
* Lettuces (all varieties).

Drinks

You can count 8 fluid ounces of these sugar-free or unsweetened drinks as one snack:

* Club soda
* Carbonated or mineral water
* Broth, bouillon, or consommes (also the low-salt varieties).

You should also drink a lot of water while you are pregnant with

Condiments

You can use the following in your meal plan, in the amounts listed:

* Catsup (1 tablespoon)
* Fat-free cream cheese (1 tablespoon)
* Horseradish
* Fat-free mayonnaise (1 tablespoon)
* Fat-free margarine (1 tablespoon)
* Reduced-fat margarine (1 teaspoon)
* Mustard
* Non-stick cooking spray
* Fat-free salad dressing (1 tablespoon)
* Salsa (1/4 cup)
* Fat-free or reduced-fat sour cream (1 tablespoon)
* Soy sauce (light),
* Taco sauce (1 tablespoon)
* Vinegar
* Worcestershire sauce.

Seasonings

Use these items to season your foods without adding condiments. Serving size for these seasonings is 2 to 3 dashes:

* Garlic
* Herbs (dried or fresh)
* Flavoring agents
* Pimento
* Spices
* Tabasco or hot pepper sauce.

Source: Kraft Foods Diabetic Choices Daily Recipes , 2002; also Treating Diabetes with Good Nutrition, Diabetic Meal Plans, MediConsult.com, Inc. 2000.

* Which foods to eat
* When to eat
* How much to eat.

Choices, amounts, and timing are all important in keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range.

This article is intended to provide an overview of the diet for gestational diabetes; it is not meant to replace the interaction with your healthcare provider.

The Importance of a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet for gestational diabetes is one that includes a balance of foods from all the food groups, giving you the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy.
For women with gestational diabetes, such a diet also helps to keep blood sugar levels in the healthy target range.

Because eating a healthy diet is such an important part of a treatment plan for gestational diabetes, women should not try to create their own diets. To promote health throughout your pregnancy, it is essential that you work with your healthcare provider to create a plan for your healthy gestational diabetes diet. It is also important that you follow the plan once it has been designed.

The Food Pyramid

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

The Diabetes Food Pyramid is a general guide of what and how much to eat each day as part of your diabetes diet. It applies to people with diabetes, including gestational diabetes.

It is similar to the Food Pyramid you see on many food packages. The pyramid is divided into six groups. You should eat more foods from the largest group at the base of the pyramid and less from the smaller groups at the top of the pyramid.

The number of servings needed every day is not the same for everyone, so for a gestational diabetes diet, a range of servings is provided to ensure you get the foods you need for good health.

The food groups and suggested servings per day as part of the diet for gestational diabetes include:

* Grains, beans, and starchy vegetables: (good source of fiber and B vitamins) 6 or more servings/day.

* Fruits: (contain vitamins C, A, potassium, folate, and fiber) 3 to 4 servings a day.

* Vegetables: (provide vitamins A, C, folate, and fiber) 3 to 5 servings a day.

* Milk: (source of calcium, protein, vitamins A and D) 4 to 5 servings a day.

* Meats and others: (good source of iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein) 2 to 3 servings a day.

* Fats, sweets, and alcohol: The foods at the tip of the pyramid should be eaten in small amounts. Fats and oils should be limited because they are high in calories. Sweets are high in sugar and should only be eaten once in a while.


Gestational Diabetes Diet << 2 << 3 << 4

This stew can be served with boiled yucca or plantains and a vegetable salad. Top it off with some fresh fruit, and you have a healthy meal. Freeze any leftovers and enjoy it later.

Ingredients (Serves 10)

You’ll need the following ingredients:

* 6 cups water
* 10 ounces white wine
* 3 celery stalks, chopped
* 3 medium carrots, chopped
* 1 pound large shrimp, washed
* 1 pound crayfish
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 medium onions, chopped
* 1 medium red pepper, chopped
* 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
* 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
* 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
* 1 pound sea bass, cut into chunks
* 1 pound small squid, cleaned and sliced
* Salt and pepper to taste.

Procedure

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Here’s what you need to do:

* In a large, non-aluminum saucepan, stir together the water, white wine, celery, and carrots. Bring to a simmer and cook for five minutes.

* Add the shrimp and crayfish, and simmer for three to four minutes. Strain the shellfish and vegetables from the broth, and set the broth aside. Peel the crayfish and shrimp, and discard the shells.

* Warm the olive oil in the large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook the onions and peppers until tender (about six minutes). Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, and oregano. Add the reserved broth and bring to a simmer.

* Stir in the sea bass and squid, and simmer for two minutes. Return the crayfish, shrimp, and vegetables to the broth, and simmer for one more minute. Season to taste, ladle into bowls, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

Daily Servings According to the Diabetes Food Pyramid

Recipes for Diabetes 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Diabetes Recipes: Eggplant Lasagna
This is a delicious dish that could be served with a mixed vegetable salad or steamed broccoli and French bread.

Ingredients (Serves 4)
You’ll need the following ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, sliced
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 large tomato, sliced thin
* 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
* 1½ teaspoons dried basil
* 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
* 1 medium eggplant, sliced thin
* 8 ounces shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.

Procedure

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Here’s what you need to do:

* Preheat oven to 425°F.

* In a medium nonstick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until tender (about two to three minutes). Transfer to an 8″ x 8″ or 9″ x 13″ baking dish.

* Sauté the garlic for one minute. Add the crushed tomato, basil, oregano, and salt; then cook gently over medium-low heat for ten minutes.

* Spread a layer of this mixture over the onion layer.

* Add a layer of eggplant and follow with a layer of tomato.

* Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese over top.

* Repeat layers of eggplant, tomato, and cheese until you use all ingredients. Finish with a layer of mozzarella cheese.

* Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

* Uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes or until layer of cheese is light brown.

Nutrition Information

Daily Servings According to Diabetes Food Pyramid

Diabetes Recipes: Rice With Chicken — Spanish Style
This is a good way to get vegetables into the meal plan. Serve with a mixed green salad and some whole-wheat bread.

Ingredients (Serves
To make this recipe, you’ll need:

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 medium onions, chopped
* 4 garlic cloves, minced
* 2 stalks celery, diced
* 2 medium red/green peppers, cut into strips
* 1 cup chopped mushrooms
* 2 cups uncooked rice
* 1 three-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces, skin removed
* 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
* 3½ cups chicken broth, fat removed
* 4 cups water
* Saffron or Sazón, for color
* 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup frozen corn
* 1 cup frozen green beans
* Olives or capers for garnish, if desired.

Procedure
Here’s what you need to do:

* Heat the oil over medium heat in a nonstick pot. Add the onion, garlic, celery, green pepper, and mushrooms. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, for about three minutes or until tender.

* Add the rice and sauté for two to three minutes, stirring constantly until it begins to brown.

* Add the chicken, salt, chicken broth, water, saffron (Sazón), and tomatoes. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer.

* Cover the pot and let the casserole simmer until the water is absorbed and rice is tender, about 20 minutes.

* Stir in the peas, corn, and beans, and cook for eight to ten minutes. When everything is hot, the casserole is ready to serve. Garnish with olives or capers, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Daily Servings According to the Diabetes Food Pyramid

Recipes for Diabetes 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

The fish can be served on top of the vegetables along with rice pilaf and garnished with parsley. Salmon or chicken breast can be used in place of red snapper.

Ingredients (Serves 4)
For this recipe, you’ll need the following:

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1/2 cup chopped red pepper
* 1/2 cup carrots, cut in strips
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 3/4 pound red snapper fillet
* 1 large tomato, chopped
* 2 tablespoons pitted ripe olives, chopped
* 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese or low-fat ricotta cheese.

Procedure
Here’s what you need to do:

* In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, red pepper, carrot, and garlic; sauté 10 minutes. Add wine and bring to a boil. Push vegetables to one side of the pan.

* Arrange fillets in a single layer in center of skillet. Cover; cook for five minutes.

* Add tomato and olives. Top with cheese. Cover; cook three minutes or until fish is firm but moist.

* Transfer fish to serving platter; garnish with vegetables and pan juices.

Nutrition Information

Daily Servings According to the Diabetes Food Pyramid

Diabetes Recipes: Two-Cheese Pizza

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Serve your pizza with fresh fruit and a mixed green salad garnished with red beans to balance your meal.

Ingredients (Serves 4)
You’ll need the following ingredients:

* Whole-wheat flour
* 1 can (10 ounces) refrigerated pizza crust
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 small onion, minced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
* 4 ounces shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
* 2 cups chopped mushrooms
* 1 large red pepper, cut into strips.

Procedure
Here what you need to do:

* Preheat oven to 425°F.
* Spread whole-wheat flour over working surface. Roll out dough with rolling pin to desired crust thickness.
* Coat cookie sheet with cooking spray. Transfer pizza crust to cookie sheet. Brush olive oil over crust.
* Mix the ricotta cheese with the dried basil, onion, garlic, and salt; spread this mixture over crust.
* Sprinkle crust with mozzarella cheese. Top cheese with mushrooms and red pepper.
* Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until cheese melts and crust is deep golden brown.
* Cut into eight slices.

Nutrition Information

Recipes for Diabetes 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

This recipe goes nicely with a green leaf lettuce and cucumber salad and a dinner roll. Plantains or corn can be used in place of the potatoes.

Ingredients (Serves 5)

You’ll need the following ingredients for this meal:

* 1 pound lean beef or turkey breast cut into cubes
* Whole-wheat flour
* 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon cumin
* 1½ tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 2 medium onions, sliced
* 2 stalks celery, sliced
* 1 medium red/green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 medium tomato, finely minced
* 5 cups of beef or turkey broth, fat removed
* 5 small potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 12 small carrots
* 1¼ cups green peas.

Procedure

What Is a Diabetic Diet? Vegetables Diabetic Diet Diabetic Diet and the Sweet Tooth Diabetes Food Pyramid? Healthy Eating for Diabetics Recipes for Diabetes Gestational Diabetes Diet Gestational Diabetes Sample Menu

Here’s what you need to do:

* Preheat oven to 375°F.

* Mix the whole-wheat flour with salt, pepper, and cumin, then roll the beef or turkey cubes in the mixture. Shake off excess flour.

* In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef or turkey cubes and sauté until nicely brown (about seven to ten minutes).

* Place the beef or turkey in an oven-proof casserole.

* Add minced garlic, onions, celery, and peppers to the skillet and cook until vegetables are tender (about five minutes).

* Stir in the tomato and broth. Bring to a boil and pour over the turkey or beef pieces. Cover the casserole tightly and bake for 1 hour at 375°F.

* Remove from the oven and stir in the potatoes, carrots, and peas. Bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender.

Nutrition Information

Daily Servings According to the Diabetes Food Pyramid

Recipes for Diabetes 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5