Diabetic Menu Options

According to the American Diabetes Association, sufferers of diabetes can develop other health complications like glaucoma, cataracts, hypertension, and kidney disease. A modified diet is essential to managing the problem. Along with exercise and an overall healthier lifestyle, menu options should be tasty, filling and creative. Help combat diabetes by eating better food options.

Carbohydrates

• According to the American Diabetes Association, whole grain and starchy foods should be selected based with great care. Select whole grains that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Consume 100 percent whole wheat flour products. Eat whole grains like whole rye, whole oats/oatmeal, wild rice, and millet. Eat breads, cereals and crackers with whole grain as the first ingredient.

  A bowl of whole wheat cereal, coupled with skim milk provides and excellent source of fiber and protein in the morning. Uncle Ben's whole grain rice products are a good choice. A serving of rice goes well with lean meats and a non-starchy vegetable. Whole grain pasta is the best choice when making spaghetti with meatballs or vegetable tomato sauce.

Vegetables

• According to the American Diabetes Association, vegetables like spinach, carrots, broccoli, and green beans contain no starch and should be eaten regularly with meals. Steam fresh or frozen carrots and eat as a side dish. Make a bowl of steamed or lightly sautéed broccoli and onions. Create a tasty fresh spinach salad with baby spinach leaves and plum tomatoes. Add a dash of fresh lemon juice or a salad dressing that is low in fat and sugar. Spinach can also be sautéed.

Protein

• Lean meats can be marinated with dry rub or fresh herbs. Skinless chicken, lean cuts of beef and seafood are great for diabetics, because they do not contain carbohydrates. Baked or grilled chicken go well with a serving of black beans, lentil soup or vegetarian baked beans. Toss seafood in a salad or have it with brown rice. Add strips of beef to a non-starchy vegetable like broccoli and create a delicious stir fry.

Combinations

• Make a healthy salad with baby spinach, tomatoes, onions, and a lean protein. Create a tasty beef soup with low sodium broth, lean beef, fresh herbs, and non-starchy vegetables. Mix lean turkey sausage, onions, and green peppers with two or three egg whites for the perfect omelet. Vegetarians can enjoy whole wheat spaghetti or ziti with broccoli, onions and tofu.

Fruit

• Diabetics may want to satisfy a sweet tooth or eat something light and healthy such as fresh fruit. Apples, grapes, and strawberries make a tasty fruit salad. Create the perfect smoothie by adding a serving of frozen strawberries and/or blueberries to a cup of low-fat milk or yogurt.

Snacks

• Try sugar-free gelatin, homemade crust less pumpkin pie or packaged snacks such as sugar-free cookies. Many ice cream shops have modified their menus to include low-sugar or sugar-free ice cream and frozen yogurt.