Faith Regional Health Services | living WELL | Spring 2023

8 FAITH REGIONAL Health Services Now what can I eat? It’s a question many people ask after learning they have type 2 diabetes or its precursor, prediabetes. To be sure, healthy eating is important when it comes to managing your blood sugar levels. But doing so is easier than you might think. Despite what you may have heard, you don’t have to follow a strict diet of diabetes foods. You can still eat delicious fare, including a lot of your favorites. Start with a plan You will need to choose from all the major food groups. Your meal plan, which your health team will create for you, will tell you what types and amounts to include. One method of meal planning is the plate method. It’s pretty simple. You start by filling half your plate Eating well with diabetes IT’S EASIER THAN YOU THINK! with nonstarchy vegetables (such as leafy green ones). Next, you put a lean protein (such as skinless chicken) on one-fourth of the plate. A whole grain (such as whole-grain bread or pasta) or starchy vegetables (such as potatoes, corn or peas) fills the other onefourth. A small serving of fruit and a glass of milk can go on the side. Another method of meal planning is to track how many carbohydrates, or carbs, you eat. Why carbs? Of all the foods you may eat, carbs affect blood sugar the most. Carbs include bread, pasta, rice, fruits, vegetables and sweets. Speaking of sweets: Yes, you can still enjoy small portions now and then. With a little planning, you can fit them in. Sources: American Association of Diabetes Educators; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases “Optimize your health and well-being by practicing balanced eating and including a variety of food groups and colors. Don’t forget to have fun with nourishment by trying a variety of preparation methods, cultural foods and flavors for long-term satisfaction while striving toward your wellness goals.” — Melinda Heller, registered dietitian at Faith Regional

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