Eating a variety of healthy foods helps strengthen your immune system and keep your blood glucose levels well managed.  

The best way to manage diabetes is to understand your individual nutrition needs. One size does not fit all just because you have diabetes. It is wise to meet with a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator to develop a diabetes eating plan specific to your needs. This is especially important when first diagnosed with diabetes, but also important for reinforcement and updating your eating plan as your needs change.  

Your age and activity level will determine your calorie needs. Carbohydrate intake increases blood glucose levels. For better glucose management carbohydrate intake needs to be monitored. This will help determine how much you can eat at meals and snacks and still manage your blood glucose.  

Healthier carbohydrates are vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Less healthy carbohydrates are sweetened beverages, candy, desserts, and highly processed foods and foods with added sugar and fats. 

A diabetes educator can help you determine your carbohydrate needs. If your blood glucose is 180 mg/dl or higher two hours after a meal it may show that you are eating too much carbohydrate at the past meal, or you need to have your diabetes medication adjusted.