General Diabetic Diet

• The main goal of a diabetic diet is to control blood sugar and insulin levels. Carbohydrates--the foods that enter the blood rapidly and cause insulin levels to destabilize--are important to think about when choosing foods to eat.
  
  

The Glycemic Index and Fiber

• Diabetics should take into account the glycemic index, a guide that helps you understand the effect of food on your blood sugar levels. Most vegetables are low on the glycemic index and contain fiber that is excellent for maintaining proper blood sugar levels.
  
  Diabetics should aim to eat about 20 to 30 grams of fiber per day. Fiber can also come from sources like legumes (beans, nuts and lentils) and whole grain breads, as well as oatmeal and other cereals.
  
  

Fruits and Vegetables

• According to a study in the Archives of Internal Medicine, people with a higher level of vitamin C in the bloodstream were 62 percent less likely to develop diabetes. Participants who ate five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day had these higher levels of vitamin C. The results suggest that even small servings of fruits and vegetables had a positive effect.
  
  

Mediterranean Diet

• For inspiration on a healthy diet, diabetics can look to the Mediterranean. Greeks and Italians favor a diet full of green vegetables and whole grains with heart-healthy olive oil, but low in red meat. These countries have lower instances of diabetes, most likely due to their healthful diet.
  
  

General Health

• Diabetics must be careful of their diet, but overall health must not be overlooked. That means maintaining a healthy weight and good cholesterol levels, keeping or achieving low blood pressure and keeping stress levels at a minimum. Talk to your doctor about ways to incorporate healthy eating into your life.