Panels Five & Six: Step Three: Healthy Eating

Controlling what you eat, when you eat and how much you eat is very important. You do not have to give up all your favorite foods or even prepare special meals, but you do need to make a meal plan that is healthy and make it a part of your daily routine.

Balance: You need a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat and the right number of calories every day. An easy way to achieve this balance is to consistently fill your plate in the way pictured below. Be sure these portions are prepared with little or no fat.

Learning to have the right balance of foods at every meal can help you control your weight and keep your blood sugar within your target range.

Timing: Do not skip meals! Plan meals and snacks so that you eat every 4 to 5 hours. This will mean eating breakfast, lunch dinner, and a snack or two each day. If you take medication for your diabetes, get advise from your doctor about how to time your medication around your meals.

Eating Out: Stay on your meal plan and learn how to make healthy food choices when you go to fast food places, restaurants and other people's homes.

Sick Day Plan: An illness, injury or even stress can make your blood sugar go up so make a sick-day plan with your doctor before you get ill or hurt. This plan will help you avoid sudden diabetes complications that could send you to the hospital.