If you're diabetic or pre-diabetic, your doctor has probably advised you to look at a diabetic food guide or information about sweeteners and diabetes. Did you know that there is a diabetic food pyramid to help guide your food choices? You've probably seen the food pyramid, but the diabetic food pyramid is slightly different than the food pyramid published by the USDA. In the diabetic food pyramid, foods and serving sizes are grouped based on their carbohydrate and protein content instead of their classification as a food. The diabetic version serves as a diabetic food guide to help diabetics understand the ideal diabetic diet.

The food pyramid above gives a quick snapshot of the ideal diabetic diet. Food is divided into six groups and according to type. More servings should be eaten from those groups near the base of the pyramid and less from the top. The number of servings depends on your diabetes goals, calorie and nutrition needs.

Diet Tips

• Try to maintain a healthy weight. Losing just 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can improve your condition.
• Eat a variety of foods. Arrange your plate with lots of colors, incorporating fruits, vegetables, meats and other forms of protein, such as nuts, dairy products, grains and cereals.
• Choose foods high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, such as whole grain breads, fruit and cereal. You should be consuming at least 14 grams of fiber for every 100 calories you take in.
• Get important carbohydrates from whole grains, vegetables and fruits.
• Control portions (in consultation with a dietitian). Excess body fat results in less sensitivity to insulin in people with type 2 diabetes.
• Do not skip meals. Establish a routine in which meals and snacks are eaten at regular times every day.