Archive for the ‘Diabetic Meals’ Category

Enjoy a Tex Mex Diabetic Meal of Taco Style Lasagna, Southwestern Skillet Corn and Tangy Lemonade Pie

Posted by diabeticssource on November 12th, 2009


Make a Tex-Mex style meal for your family to enjoy.  This meal,  is tasty , easy and economical.  For the entree, taco-style lasagna is a casserole that only takes minutes to make and then bakes for about a half hour.  The flour tortillas instead of lasagna noodles, the beans, taco seasoning, etc. come together to create a real southwestern-style dish.This dish has your meat, vegetables, and dairy all in one dish.  Some grain is included with the tortillas.  By topping with shredded lettuce and tomato, you add a salad element.  To go with the lasagna, serve southwestern skillet corn to add to the southwestern flair of the meal.  For dessert, finish your meal with the cool, tangy tartness of lemonade pie.

TACO-STYLE LASAGNA

1 lb lean ground beef

1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper

1/2 cup chopped onion

2/3 cup water

1 pkg taco seasoning mix

1 can (15-oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 1/2-oz) Mexican-style diced tomatoes, do not drain

6 (8″) flour tortillas

1 can (16-oz) refried beans

3 cups (12-oz pkg) shredded Mexican cheese blend

In a large skillet, cook the beef, pepper, and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain well and rinse with hot water.  Return to skillet, add water and taco seasoning mix; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for two minutes.  Stir in the black beans and tomatoes.  Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.

Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish or pan.  Place two tortillas in greased pan and spread half of the refried beans and beef mixture over the tortillas.  Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over beef mixture.  Repeat layers.  Top with remaining tortillas and cheese.  Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.  Before serving, top each serving with some shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, if desired, to bring some salad into the meal.

9 servings

SOUTHWESTERN SKILLET CORN

1 med red bell pepper, chopped

1 tbsp finely chopped seeded jalapeno pepper

1 tbsp butter

1 1/2 tsp ground cumin

1 (1 lb) pkg frozen corn, thawed

1/3 cup minced fresh cilantro (parsley may be substituted)

In a large nonstick skillet, saute pepper and jalapeno in butter until they are tender.  Add cumin, cook another half a minute.  Add corn and cilantro; saute another 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through.

3/4 cup = 138 calories, 26 g carbs, 6 g protein

Note:  Be careful when handling jalapenos.  Wear gloves and do not touch your eyes or face.

TANGY LEMONADE PIE

1 pkg (.3 oz) sugar-free lemon gelatin

1 pkg (8 oz) reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed

1 3/4 tsp sugar-free lemonade drink mix

1 (8 oz) reduced fat graham cracker crust

6 tbsp sugar-free frozen whipped topping, thawed

Prepare gelatin according to package directions.  Refrigerate until almost set.  Transfer gelatin to a blender or food processor.  Add the cream cheese and lemonade mix; cover and process until smooth.  Pour into the crust.  Refrigerate overnight.  Serve with whipped topping.

Enjoy!

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Food List for Diabetics to Eat – Free Diabetic Meal Plan and Diabetic Recipes for Any of You to Try

Posted by diabeticssource on November 9th, 2009


Having a healthy balanced diet for anyone whether they are diabetic or not should be a priority however with diabetics this is a must have. The recommended daily calories for a person with diabetes is between 1200 – 1800 calories which should consist of 50% carbohydrates 20% protein and 30% fats. This would prove to be a balanced and healthy diet for anyone with diabetes however this is very much just a guide line and depending on what your diabetics condition is like as most people suffering with diabetes have unique conditions and situations it will differ from person to person.A must have for people with diabetes is Alpha-lipoic acid now this is like a vitamin and it helps to enhance the glucose uptake and improve nerve damage.Another must have for any diabetic is Omega 3 most people have heard of Omega 3 and this helps to protect against hardening arteries.Both of these are very important and must haves for anyone with diabetes, whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes including these two substances in to your diet can benefit your illness largely having great effects on your body and the illness.There are many factors which help to understand what each person suffering from diabetes needs, this is why when you go to create a diabetic meal plan it is best consulting your doctor as well as they know your medical condition more than anyone else. They are able to give expert advice on how to structure and what to include in your diabetic meal plan.

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Diabetes Nutrition – What to Watch for to Provide Nutritious Food to the Body

Posted by diabeticssource on November 1st, 2009


When it comes to dealing with diabetes, you need to understand that diet plays an important role. Most people simply love to eat out and indulging restaurant food occasionally.

It is not a sin for the diabetics to indulge in restaurant food once in a while. However, you need to take special care about certain kinds of things when it comes to eating food. Here are certain things you need to keep in mind.

a) Keep a check on your portion sizes

Most restaurants tend to use large portions. However, for diabetics the diet plan is based on a moderate portion size. In case, the restaurant you have chosen offers meals in many sizes, make sure that you choose the smallest portion. You may also get a bit creative.

Start ordering a lunch sized entrée for dinner or even a baby sized meal. You may even consider sharing your meals with a partner or even request for a take home container.

It would be a wise decision to ask the server to put half of the meal you have ordered, into a take-home container prior to it is served to you. This will help you have a moderate sized meal.

b) Make substitutions

Never ever settle for whatever comes in your way. Try to choose a diabetes friendly salad or a fruit bowl instead of fries. Fat-free or low-fat salad dressing is the best as compared to fries or finger chips served along with the sandwich or a certain meal.

Try ordering for salsa with burrito and not shredded cheese or sour cream. The dressings on the salad should be fat-free mayonnaise or barbecue sauce instead of ketchup or mustard. Several extras ordered with a sandwich or meal such as bacon bits, fried chips or croutons can destroy your nutrition plan. These foods tend to increase calorie as well as carbohydrate count.

You may also go for several healthy additions such as salsa, fat free mayonnaise, fat-free salad dressing or barbecue sauce. Try to enjoy up to three small serving of food. This way, you don’t require adjusting your meal plan.

c) Have a chat with the chef

This will help you a lot in having the most nutritious food that’s required for a diabetic. Ask the chef if he can provide you with some low cholesterol eggs, skinless chicken or whole grain bread.

The pizza you order should have a thin crust and consists of a lot of vegetables. All you require to do is to opt for a healthier plan in order to stay committed to your diabetes meal plan.

d) Keep tabs on what you drink

If you are having a large glass of soda, then you surely are going to overload your body with about hundreds of calories. Don’t opt for shakes and ice cream as they have a lot of calories and saturated fat.

Ordering for a diet soda will be the right choice. You can even go for sugar free iced tea, mineral water or sparkling water. If your diabetes is under control, an occasional alcoholic drink is perfectly fine.

However, if your blood sugar levels are high, alcohol will add to empty calories to your meals. It can even aggravate complications such as eye disease or nerve damage. If you must drink alcohol, light beer and dry wines consists of fewer calories as compared to other alcoholic drinks. Sugar free mixed drinks are great options such as seltzer, club soda, diet soda or diet tonic.

e) Eat on time

Eating at same time will help you maintain steady blood sugar levels.

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Manage your Sugar Diabetes with a Sugar Diabetes Meal Plan

Posted by diabeticssource on October 29th, 2009


More than likely, the first perception of those who suffer from diabetes is that medications are the only means available to regulate the disease.  Fortunately, a medical solution is just one way to treat sugar diabetes effectively. Many times, a small change in your diet by moderating the foods that you consume can get the same results that medication would.

If you make your own meal plan for diabetes, you’re far more likely to be able to follow it successfully. Provided you select them properly, the diet can be comprised of numerous foods that you enjoy. However, making a plan is not all you need to do. Don’t allow yourself to find ways to mentally back out of the meal plan by trying to find the perfect amount of time in your day to eat.

Sticking to a sugar diabetes meal plan carries with it a number of advantages. You can improve both your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The most important factor to your diabetes, your blood sugar levels, will also be better maintained with a sugar diabetes meal plan.

As an additional benefit, you may shed some pounds by adhering to a well-designed diabetic meal plan. Due to the fact that overweight people often suffer from sugar diabetes, it is important to eat a nutritious diet so you can avoid gaining extra pounds. If you include foods you love to eat, rather than those you don’t, in your sugar diabetes meal plan, you will be more likely to eat healthy. You will reap the rewards of your efforts by losing the extra weight and helping to take good care of your body.

To set up an efficient meal plan for sugar diabetes, you need to count your intake of calories, as well as the carbohydrates that you consume. Review the food pyramid guides or exchange lists to determine how much food you should eat from each of the food groups. By taking these steps toward preparing a reasonable sugar diabetes meal plan, you can help control your sugar diabetes, improve your long term health, and create a sense of well being.

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How to Make a Tasty Diabetic Meal featuring Sweet and Sour Pot Roast (Not Limited to Diabetics)

Posted by diabeticssource on October 29th, 2009


If you or a family member are diabetic, here is a menu for a delicious meal that shouldn’t raise your blood sugar level.  It is perfect because no one will even suspect it is a diabetic meal.  The whole family will love it.  The featured entree is Sweet & Sour Pot Roast  which is a very easy dish that cooks on top of the stove.  The aroma filling your house will be very enticing.  For your side dish these Glazed Carrots with Onions add a special touch.  Cooked carrots should always be eaten with a protein item so pairing them with the roast is a perfect combination.  If you have room for dessert, try this recipe for a delicious berry crisp.

SWEET AND SOUR POT ROAST

3 1/2 lb chuck roast

2 tbsp canola oil

2 onions, quartered

1 bay leaf

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup water

1 tbsp Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

1/4 cup catsup

2 tsp vinegar

In a Dutch Oven Pot brown meat in canola oil.  Add all the remaining ingredients.  Add lid to the pot and simmer the mixture for at least 1 hour and a half to 2 hours.

GLAZED CARROTS with ONIONS

3 beef bouillon cubes

6 medium carrots, quartered

boiling water

4 medium onions, sliced

1/4 cup butter

1 tbsp Splenda granular

2 tbsp chopped parsley

In a large saucepan combine two of the bouillon cubes with the carrots.  Add enough boiling water to cover the carrots; stir to dissolve the bouillon.  Cover pan and cook for 10 minutes.  Add the onions and cook another six minutes or until carrots are just tender; drain.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.  Add the third bouillon cube and the Splenda.  Stir until the bouillon is dissolved.  Add the carrot and onion mixture.  Cook, stirring frequently, until the carrots and onions are golden and glazed.  Sprinkle with the chopped parsley just before serving.

Note:  This recipe can also be made with chicken bouillon.

DELISH BERRY CRISP

1 cup old-fashion or quick cooking oats

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tbsp Splenda granular

1 1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 cup firmly packed Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

1 stick unsalted butter, softened

5 cups fresh berries ie blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, pitted cherries, or a combination of more than one.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a 9 x 13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, mix together oats, flour, Splenda, cinnamon and nutmeg.  Add brown sugar blend and mix; break up any lumps with the back of your spoon.  Add butter, distributing through the oat mixture,  using your clean hands is the best way, until crumbly.  Place the berries in the bottom of the prepared baking pan.  Scatter the oat mixture over the top of the berries.  Be sure to cover the berries evenly.  Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes until the juices begin to bubble around the edges.  The topping should be lightly browned and crisp.

Note:  This crisp is really good served warm with vanilla sugar-free ice cream!

Enjoy!

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Diabetes Meal Plans-Meal Planning Tips For Diabetics

Posted by diabeticssource on October 29th, 2009


A diabetes meal plans is a guide that tells you how much and what types of food you can decide to eat at meals and snack times. A diabetes meal plans is designed to fit into your schedule and eating habits in order to help you keep your blood sugar levels on an even keel during the day.

the idea that you must utterly avoid sugar in your diabetes meal plans is one of the biggest misapprehensions in diabetes management.

The diabetes meal plans is designed to be healthy for diabetics and is reduced carbohydrate, reduced fat, and reduced sodium. An important part of the well working diabetes meal plan is to follow a healthy diabetic diet, reducing any farther problems like stroke or coronary disease.

The diabetes meal plans is not much different to the way everybody should eat. In reality, a meal plan for diabetes is a guide to the way the general public should eat. The focus of the diabetes meal plans is healthful meals focused on whole foods like grains, lean proteins and healthy fats with the inclusion of herbs and spices like cinnamon, to provide delectable taste and added health benefits.

Which diabetes meal plans is right for you? There’s no one meal plan for diabetes that works for everybody ; much of it actually is primarily based on age, sex, activity level, weight, and food preferences. There are several paths to help keep a meal plan for diabetes ; some are food pyramids, food classification, exchange lists and carbohydrate counting.

With planning, you can follow your guide for diabetes when you eat at eateries. If you’re showing signs of diabetes and experiencing signs of this illness, then you need to follow a diabetes meal plans. A structured diabetes meal plans is a very important part of your diabetes control as is spotting when you need to drink or eat in order to balance the effects of tablets or insulin on your blood glucose level.

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Diabetes Food Pyramid, Know About Ideal Diabetic Meal Plan

Posted by diabeticssource on October 27th, 2009


The diabetes food pyramid is a food educational diagram aimed at simplifying the food choices that diabetics have to make. A new version of the food pyramid was released by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2005. The American Diabetics Association has commented that the diagram is useful for diabetics and can help non-diabetic people make sensible food choices that can serve to prevent further cases of the disease occurring.

The diabetic food pyramid is much like the more recognizable regular food pyramid with the primary difference being it helps diabetics avoid eating excess sugar. Because it is directed for use by those with diabetes it is fully supported by the American Dietetic Association and the American Diabetes Association.

The diabetic food pyramid is a diagrammatic representation of the types of foods a diabetic should eat. The diagram is in the shape of a pyramid divided into six sections. The sections at the bottom are biggest, indicating that these types of foods should be eaten the most. As the pyramid moves to the tip, the sections get smaller until the tip is the smallest, and indicates that these types of foods should be eaten the least.

With food labels, it all comes down to the nutrition facts. This is where you should start to get an idea of a diabetic food pyramid. It’s that list of nutrition information found on the package of foods sold in the grocery store. Reading food labels can help you make wise choices about the foods you buy. The labels will tell you what ingredients were used, the amount of calories, and other pertinent information essential to a diabetes patient.

Whole grains and some varieties of starchy food can be extremely beneficial for you. While it is never desirable to overdo the starch bit, it can be of tremendous use when consumed in moderation, as it contains the most-needed, energy-generating carbohydrates. Hence the pyramid’s base should include foods such as pasta, bread, rice and cereal. Apart from that, you could include a serving of peas, black-eyes peas, potatoes, dry beans and corn.

The largest group on the diabetic food pyramid is the grains, starchy vegetables and beans group, and is located on the very bottom of the pyramid. The smallest group is the fats, alcohol and sweets group, and is located at the top of the pyramid. The larger, lower groups require more servings per day, and the smaller, higher groups require significantly less. You should eat as very little from the fats, alcohol and sweets group as you possible can, as the foods that fit into that category are poor choices for a healthy eating plan.

Dietary glucose (sugar) is something all diabetics need to manage closely. The perception that they cannot eat sugar is not completely true but it is something that most diabetics avoid. The severity of their diabetes determines if and how much sugar they can eat from time to time. The diabetic pyramid shows those with this condition which foods to eat and in what amounts to help control blood sugar levels.

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The Type 2 Diabetic Diet And Exercise Routine

Posted by diabeticssource on October 26th, 2009


For adults diagnosed with adult onset type 2 diabetes most health care professionals agree that the best way to control its effects are with a type 2 diabetic diet and exercise. Although some people are genetically predisposed to contracting diabetes most cases are caused by poor lifestyle choices centered around bad diet, obesity, and a lack of exercise. Reversing the damage caused by years of un-healthy living is hard to do but if the specter of type 2 diabetes is looming over your long term health it is vitally important to change the way you live to best control the long term consequences that diabetes is known for.

Since both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are major health issues it is important to consult you doctor before starting any new diet or exercise plan. Your doctor can get you started in the right direction and recommend a dietician who specializes in the type 2 diabetic diet. The dietician can help taylor a customized diabetic meal plan to your specific needs. There will be foods that are for the most part off limits but in most cases moderation is the key to combating this disease and the health issues it is directly responsible for.

Probably the biggest dietary change for the type 2 diabetic is cutting sugar and simple carbohydrates out of their diet. Sodas, candy, and baked goods are to be avoided because they pose the greatest threat to the diabetic; hyperglycemia otherwise known as high blood sugar.

Instead of the empty calories to be found in high sugar and processed foods you should eat a diet of nutrient rich foods that provide the necessary health benefits that only they can provide. Fruits, vegetables, and protein from lean meats and nuts are a good place to start with a type 2 diabetic diet. These foods and others provide a good mix of nutrients including complex carbohydrates which provide you with a steady supply of energy throughout the day and keep your blood sugar levels consistent.

The other important aspect of the diet for those with type 2 diabetes is how often you eat during the day. Instead of eating two or three big meals you need to be eating five or six smaller meals throughout the day. This helps avoid the big blood sugar spikes that are associated with eating big meals. Eating smaller meals will keep you blood sugars at a steady level which is easier to control.

Step 2 in properly controlling the effects of your diabetes is a regular exercise routine. Any type of exercise is a good thing and if you do nothing more then go for regular walks you are off to a good start. As you progress and your health improves and your diabetes comes under control you can add to your routine if you wish. Join a gym, go for bike rides, yoga, aerobics, or any other physical activity you enjoy are all good ways to add variety to your program.

The complications caused by type 2 diabetes can be easily managed and avoided by following a sensible type 2 diabetic diet plan and exercise program. By making these simple lifestyle changes and staying healthy you can control your diabetes and live your life to the fullest.

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Gestational Diabetes Baby Risks

Posted by diabeticssource on October 23rd, 2009


Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that is characterized by insulin resistance that occurs primarily during the second and third trimester of a woman’s pregnancy. It is believed to be caused by the rapid and excessive hormone production that women go through during their pregnancy. It is also thought that pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to deal with rising blood sugar levels which leads to hyperglycemia. Left untreated a gestational diabetes baby is placed at a higher risk.

About 4 percent of all pregnant women will be afflicted with gestational diabetes but it usually goes away after the baby is born. Left untreated this form of diabetes can pose a dangerous risk to both the mother and unborn baby. The biggest risk is caused by excessive sugar that crosses the placenta to the baby. Insulin on the other hand does not cross this barrier.

High blood sugar levels in the mother means the same for the baby. The developing baby’s pancreas compensates for this by producing more insulin to remove the excess sugar from its blood stream. The sugar is stored away as fat which leads to macrosomia, also known as fat baby syndrome.

Babies born with macrosomia can have a whole host of health issues, some of which can be life threatening. Because babies born with this condition tend to be larger then normal they are most often require a cesarean birth. If they are born naturally they can damage their shoulders because they are too large for the birth canal. They can also be born with extremely low blood sugar levels and their respiratory system may not be fully developed, causing breathing problems.

To prevent gestational diabetes baby risks every woman should be tested during the second trimester of their pregnancy. If they are found to be suffering from this condition treatment and control needs to be started quickly. In most cases it can be controlled through gestational diabetes meal planning and exercise but in more extreme cases medical intervention may be necessary including daily insulin injections.

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How to Make a Tasty Diabetic Meal that Tastes Great to Anyone

Posted by diabeticssource on October 23rd, 2009


This is a menu perfect for diabetics but just as tasty for the whole family or group of friends.  If you are diabetic, these are great recipes you can take to potlucks, etc so you know there is food suitable for you.  This menu is for Glazed Chicken Stir Fry, Spinach Casserole, and Coconut Rice Pudding with Fruit for dessert.

GLAZED CHICKEN STIR FRY

1 tsp dill weed

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

3 ribs of celery, thin sliced

3 medium carrots, thin sliced

1 tbsp canola or extra virgin olive oil

4 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp chicken bouillon granules

1 cup no-sugar-add apple juice

In a bowl, combine the dill, salt and pepper; add chicken and toss to coat.  Place oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok; add chicken, celery, and carrots.  Stir-fry until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the vegetables are tender.  In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, bouillon and apple juice until smooth.  Stir mixture into skillet with chicken and vegetables.  Bring to a boil; cook and stir for two minutes or until thickened.

Yields 4 servings of 228 calories, 15 g carbs, and 26 g protein per serving.

SPINACH CASSEROLE

1 boxed package frozen chopped spinach

1/2 cup low-fat sour cream

1 envelope dry onion soup mix

1/2 cup shredded low-fat mozzalla cheese

1/2 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cook spinach according to package directions.  Mix spinach, sour cream and soup mix together.  Pour into a casserole dish that has been sprayed lightly with non-stick cooking spray.  Sprinkle cheeses over top.  Bake 30-40 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

COCONUT RICE PUDDING WITH FRESH BERRIES

1 cup instant brown rice

3 cup water

6 tbsp nonfat dry milk powder

4 tsp honey or 2 tsp Splenda granular

1/2 tsp coconut extract

grated coconut for garnish

2 cups fresh berries of your choice

In a microwave-safe bowl combine rice and water.  Stir to blend.  Cover bowl with plastic wrap and cut a small slit in center to vent.  Microwave on high 6 to 7 minutes.  Reduce the heat to medium and cook 3 to 6 minutes longer until rice is almost tender.  Remove bowl from microwave and allow to sit for 5 minutes or until the rice has softened.  Carefully, to prevent burns, remove the plastic wrap.  Stir the milk, honey and coconut extract into the rice.  Gently fold in the fresh berries.

Yield: 4 servings.

Enjoy!

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Diabetic Diet Plans Will Help Combat Diabetes

Posted by diabeticssource on October 20th, 2009

If you are living with diabetes, one of the best ways to fight this disease is with a diabetic diet plan. This diabetic meal plan is based of the recommended foods found on the diabetic food pyramid. By following the suggested meal plan, you will be receiving the proper amounts of recommended nutrients which will ultimately help you fight the disease.

Today, there is a wide range of diabetic diet plans. Many doctors and researchers have researched and created countless plans for diabetics. They try to aim for foods that will be tasteful, yet provide the proper amount of nutrients. We all know a diet is not any fun when the food does not taste great!

Recent studies have shown an increase in diabetes over the past 10-20 years. With the large increase, it has created a huge demand for diabetic diet plans to help diabetics battle the disesase. Since diabetes affects all types of people and diverse lifestlyes, many types of diabetic diet plans have been created to suit these varying types of individuals.

Despite the varying lifestlyes of many diabetic individuals, all have one common goal. That goal is to battle this disease with the help of a diabetic diet plan. With the proper amounts of nutrients, individuals can make progress against diabetes.

As an author at eZ-find, Chris Miller contributes to the growing content found within the site and shares his knowledge about diabetic diets and diabetic diet plans..

Author: Chris Milller
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Electric Pressure Cooker

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Diabetes Meal Plans & a Healthy Diet

Posted by diabeticssource on October 15th, 2009


Diabetes Meal Plan from Quality Health

What is a diabetes meal plan?

Diabetes Meal Planner to Help You Maintain Your Ideal Diet. A diabetes meal plan is a guide that tells you how much and what kinds of food you can choose to eat at meals and snack times. A good meal plan should fit in with our schedule and eating habits. The right meal plan will help you improve your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers and also help keep your weight on track. Whether you need to lose weight or stay where you are, your meal plan can help.

People with diabetes have to take extra care to make sure that their food is balanced with insulin and oral medications, and exercise to help manage their blood glucose levels.

This might sound like a lot of work, but your doctor and/or dietitian can help you create a meal plan that is best for you. When you make healthy food choices, you will improve your overall health and you can even prevent complications such as heart disease, some cancers, and hypertension.

What is a diabetes meal plan?

Diabetes Meal Planner to Help You Maintain Your Ideal Diet. A diabetes meal plan is a guide that tells you how much and what kinds of food you can choose to eat at meals and snack times. A good meal plan should fit in with our schedule and eating habits. The right meal plan will help you improve your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers and also help keep your weight on track. Whether you need to lose weight or stay where you are, your meal plan can help.

People with diabetes have to take extra care to make sure that their food is balanced with insulin and oral medications, and exercise to help manage their blood glucose levels.

This might sound like a lot of work, but your doctor and/or dietitian can help you create a meal plan that is best for you. When you make healthy food choices, you will improve your overall health and you can even prevent complications such as heart disease, some cancers, and hypertension.

There are many ways to help you follow your diabetes meal plan. Some ways are following the Food Guide Pyramid, Rating your Plate, Exchanges Lists, and Carbohydrate Counting. They are all different but hopefully one is right for you.

What is a healthy diet?

A healthy diet is a way of eating that that reduces risk for complications such as heart disease and stroke. Healthy eating includes eating a wide variety of foods including vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy products, beans, and lean meats, poultry and fish. There is no one perfect food so including a variety of different foods and watching portion sizes is key to a healthy diet. Also, make sure your choices from each food group provide the highest quality nutrients you can find. In other words, pick foods rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber over those that are processed.

People with diabetes can eat the same foods the family enjoys. Everyone benefits from healthy eating so the whole family can take part in healthy eating. It takes some planning but you can fit your favorite foods into your meal plan and still manage your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol.

Fill out this quick diabetes survey and then register to be a member of Quality Health. Offers users FREE information and samples along with meal planning guides.

There are many ways to help you follow your diabetes meal plan. Some ways are following the Food Guide Pyramid, Rating your Plate, Exchanges Lists, and Carbohydrate Counting. They are all different but hopefully one is right for you.

What is a healthy diet?

A healthy diet is a way of eating that that reduces risk for complications such as heart disease and stroke. Healthy eating includes eating a wide variety of foods including vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy products, beans, and lean meats, poultry and fish. There is no one perfect food so including a variety of different foods and watching portion sizes is key to a healthy diet. Also, make sure your choices from each food group provide the highest quality nutrients you can find. In other words, pick foods rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber over those that are processed.

People with diabetes can eat the same foods the family enjoys. Everyone benefits from healthy eating so the whole family can take part in healthy eating. It takes some planning but you can fit your favorite foods into your meal plan and still manage your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol.

Fill out this quick diabetes survey and then register to be a member of Quality Health. Offers users FREE information and samples along with meal planning guides.

Click Here to receive FREE Diabetes Meal Plan Guide



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Creating a Diabetic Meal Plan

Posted by diabeticssource on October 13th, 2009


The diabetic meal plan is one of the cornerstones of managing blood sugar levels that is so important for those who suffer with this disease. For this reason there are several systems that can be used for meal planning which include a consistent carbohydrate diabetes meal plan, exchange lists, point systems, food groups, and calorie counting. Each individual will have different dietary needs based on their eating habits, diet history, and special needs which must be built around the plan chosen.

Personal preferences need to be considered carefully when creating a diabetic diet plan. This is an important part of gaining compliance with the plan because one of the most difficult parts of managing diabetes is altering the foods that can be eaten along with a change in personal meal patterns. Anyone who is diabetic needs to take an active part in their meal planning with the help of a registered dietician as recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

The traditional and well known exchange list diet plan is being replaced with the consistent-carbohydrate meal plan. The idea with this plan is focusing on the carbohydrate content of the foods that are eaten with a meal. Because carbohydrates are the primary cause of raised blood sugars immediately after a meal it is important to keep the amount eaten under control. By eating a similar amount of carbs at each meal or snack that are part of the individual diet plan it is easier to manage glucose levels.

This method also helps to determine how much insulin is needed before meals; much more so then the amount of protein and fats being eaten. Counting carbohydrates allows the diabetic to calculate the proper amount of insulin needed as prescribed by their doctor.

Exchange lists work differently in that the meal plan is based on the diabetic’s ideal weight, activity level, age, and occupation. Knowing these helps the diabetic calculate the amount of kilocalories they need to consume each day to maintain energy levels while controlling blood glucose levels. Once the amount of calories is calculated the amount of calories derived from proteins, fats, and carbs can then be determined. This is done using guidelines as set forth by the American Diabetes Association and the American Dietetic Association.

The exchange lists helps the diabetic plan their meals by showing them how their food choices should be distributed throughout the day. These lists give the type of food and quantity of each food type that makes up one exchange or serving in regular household cooking measurements. These portions can be substituted or exchanged for one another with little impact as to the amount of calories consumed. This makes it easy for the diabetic to control their caloric intake to match their needs.

A successful diabetic meal plan keeps blood sugar levels under control and is an important part of managing this life threatening disease and its complications.



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The Diabetic Meal Plan – Diabetes food pyramid

Posted by diabeticssource on October 13th, 2009


  Following a methodical meal is essential to their blood sugar levels in diabetics. Here is the perfect meal for diabetics food pyramid to.

  We present you with the food pyramid for diabetics, because of the Diabetes Association, which basically consists of six categories of food pyramid. As the name suggests, this is in a food pyramid, with most below. This is the food pyramid for you – even in the category, which can be consumed safely in the majority. Category at the top is the “dangerous” for you – one that most in small quantities are consumed.

  The consumption of the minimum quantity of each variety, the food pyramid, by about 1600 calories per day. If you intend to consume the best types of food, destroy their food from da2800 calories or less. Natural spirit, your daily need for calories auch depends on the intensity and state how physically active you are, how fast or slow your metabolism and so on.

  Here is the food pyramid for you

  1. Whole grains and starches

  Whole grains and certain varieties of starchy foods can be very beneficial for you. Although not excessively low strength can be enormous benefits if consumed in moderation, as they most is the production of energy carbohydrates.  The base of the food pyramid, food such as pasta, bread, rice and cereals. In addition, a portion of peas, black eyes peas, potatoes, beans and maize.

  What are the ideal size for a piece of bread, half a bagel or pita bread, half cup of cooked cereal, a six-inch, a half cup of vegetables at the top and the third cup of rice or pasta. It could be about 5-7 servings per day.

  2. Vegetables

  This is the new category in the food pyramid. Choose those that are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals and contain less fat. It can also spinach, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, tomatoes, lettuce and such.

  You can count on about 3-4 servings a cup of raw vegetables or half a cup cooked andarerduras.

  3. Fruit

  Choose fruits with high minerals, vitamins and fibra. Bananas, peaches, pears, oranges, apricots and grapes are ideal for you. Consume approximately  2 portions of fresh fruit, a cup of melon and two tablespoons of nuts.

  4. Milk products

  You can use 2-3 per low-fat milk and dairy products, such as a cup of milk or yogurt. This gives you protein and calcium.

  5. Meat

  Consuming a total of 4-6 oz lean meat content and the substitution of food pyramid, including fish, eggs, chicken, tofu, cheese. This will give you enough protein. They had of meat or one quarter cup of cottage cheese and  an egg.

  6. Food pyramid with high fat.

  The fat foods such as chips, cakes, biscuits and cakes, but their intake of calories and weight. Degradation of these and alcohol. Of course you can with an occasional Cupcake, Muffin, or half a cup of ice. 



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A Healthy Diabetic Nutrition Plan

Posted by diabeticssource on October 12th, 2009


Quintessentially, a healthy diet is foremost to prevent exposing yourself to complications from instant heart disease and the risk of stroke. Eating healthily encompasses eating correctly and not overeats as well as different variety of foods such as vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy products, beans, and lean meats, poultry and fish. There is no such thing as an ideal food but consists of as many variety of food groups as possible and eating just an adequate amount is the key to staying in the pink of health. Choose foods that are rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and fiber and stay away from as much as possible processed foods.

With the right nutrition, those who are afflicted by diabetes can share the same table as ordinary family members. Healthy eating lifestyle will contribute to better well-beings of the family as well as the diabetic patient. A well thought out and healthy diets can take into account your favorite food but watch out for your cholesterol, blood pressure as well as blood sugar level.

When it comes to a diabetic patient, it is necessary to plan your meal and only choose the right food that meets your diabetic requirements. A healthy meal should fit right into your schedule over and above your eating habits. Choosing the proper meal plan will contribute to helping your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar remain at an ideal level. In addition, it will keep your weight in check as well as helping to do away with the excess weight.

Diabetes is a serious disease and lead to many complications so it is essential that you take further action in the types of meals you concocted. It is also obligatory to balance it with exercise, oral medications as well as insulin to control the blood glucose level. It may seem a mountainous task but your closed family members, the doctor or dietician can pit in you to plan your meals. With a proper set of meals choices, your overall health can get better in addition to preventing hypertension, cancers and heart disease.

In regards to your diabetic meals, you can choose to examine several healthy diabetic recipes that can make you feel healthy. The recipes are easy to prepare and the ingredients are readily accessible too. Healthy diabetic eating need not be boring and deprive of all your favorite foods as there are many edible and healthy recipes to choose from. Be sure to eat healthily so that your diabetes can be controlled but not scarifying your taste buds.



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Want to Know What Are the Best Foods For Diabetics? Then Read This

Posted by diabeticssource on October 8th, 2009


When you are cooking for people who have diabetes, you have to be aware of what some of the best food for diabetics are. While a person who is versed well in diet and nutrition can assist you with a diabetic meal plan. There are a few basics that you can follow to ensure that they are getting the proper nutrients while keeping there sugar low.

The first thing is to make sure that there is enough fiber in the diet. A person with diabetes should be eating at least 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories. And this can easily be included into any meal plan, because fibrous foods include beans, vegetables, whole grains, and some fruit. So right there you have a variety of food for diabetics to eat.

Secondly, try to incorporate foods that have a low glycemic index. Once again beans are apart of this list as well as oats, lentils, kefir (an excellent alternative to milk) and barley. You also want to drink plenty of water. Water is our bodies way of flushing out the toxins. And there have been published reports of how keeping your inside clean will help in keeping you as disease free as possible.

Also is has been noted by the ADA that a person with diabetes should be including plant sterols and stanols to the tune of 2 grams per day. These are not only beneficial to assisting with blood sugar but can also help with keeping LDL cholesterol in check as well.

Basically, the best food for diabetics is going to be foods that are healthy and wholesome. Stay away from eating fast food and processed food as these are not good for any one. If you are able to go the organic route that is even better. As organic food even tastes better than the food that is found at a traditional grocery store.

So if you want to keep your diabetes sugar numbers low, then invest in eating foods that are good for you. Once you begin to replace that piece of fried chicken with a piece of grilled chicken and realize how much better your body begins to feel. You will never go back to those bad eating habits again.

Learn more about how to put together a diabetic meal plan that is right for you.



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Help Fight Diabetes With a Diabetic Diet Plan

Posted by diabeticssource on October 7th, 2009


A diabetic diet plan is one of the best proven ways to combat diabetes; this can help to improve your blood sugar control, reduce and eliminate your need for insulin shots.

The diabetic food plan takes recommended foods for diabetics and creates a plan to suite both your tastes and your needs, by creating the diabetic diet plan you can improve your health and help fight diabetes.

It is essential for anyone fighting diabetes to maintain optimum weight and reduce blood cholesterol. Reducing saturated fats with unsaturated or monounsaturated fats is a priority for anyone fighting diabetes. Diabetes prevents your body from processing glucose the way it should, so a diabetic diet helps to perform that maintenance. In addition, the hope is that a diabetic diet will also help you to maintain healthy lipid levels and keep your blood pressure under control. The most important part of a diabetic’s diet is the meal plan, foods with similar nutrients and calories are grouped together. A diabetic’s meal plan is about ensuring the food intake is the right amount of food at the right time.

A diabetes diet plan can differ from each type of diabetes; diabetics who fight type 2 diabetes have fewer restrictions which help to make a more flexible diabetic diet plan which may seem to look more like a normal healthy diet plan. However type 1 have more restrictions and is more accustomed to your own diabetes.

You may be thinking that creating a diabetic meal plan sounds like a lot of hard work, that you don’t know any different food groups and that you find it all a little too confusing. However a couple of weeks becoming more knowledgeable in the area of diabetes may help to make you more comfortable and healthier.

It is essential for anyone suffering from diabetes to be aware of different food groups, what they contain and how they affect there meal plan and dieting. A large knowledge and understanding of diabetes will help you daily and to achieve your health goals.



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The Incredible Variety Of Diabetic Recipes

Posted by Nicholas Hurd on October 4th, 2009

If you’ve recently done an online search for diabetic recipes in hopes of finding healthy and nutritious meals that you can quickly and easily prepare at home, you may be pleasantly surprised at the plethora of results you were awarded with. There are numerous websites that offer recipes suitable for people with or without diabetes, a great testament to how the disease is being viewed today and the fact that those with the condition aren’t limited to eating bland, tasteless foods. It is possible for those with diabetes to enjoy recipes that include healthy choices such as meats, fish, potatoes, and an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables.

While most diabetic recipes are not easily distinguishable from all of the other “regular” recipes in abundance, there is one section they will all have in common, the specific breakdown of the food’s dietary content. This extremely necessary information will include how many carbohydrates, fats, proteins, sodium, and vitamins and minerals the prepared meal will contain. Many diabetic recipes will also include details regarding serving exchange rates, which is a system many people with the disease use to keep their eating habits and their blood sugar in check.

Besides the sheer variety of food choices available, many websites that feature diabetic recipes will also include a host of useful information about coping with the disease in general, such as where to learn more, and understanding how the foods we eat have a direct affect on conditions like diabetes. Beneficial advice about how it’s simple to convert your own favorite recipes into diabetic-friendly ones and using food exchanges to treat yourself with a healthy dessert or two are yet even more of what you’ll find on sites with diabetic recipes.

Luckily, there are many sources of accurate information for people with diabetes to look to for help with dealing with the condition, including countless recipes that are simple to make and include a wide selection of foods, and can also be easily adapted for cooking for one, or for the entire family. Whether it’s desserts, side dishes, soups, or complete entrees, using diabetic recipes ensures you’re not only protecting your health, but also getting the right balance of healthy nutrients the body needs to perform to its maximum capacity.

Nick Hurd writes about aging and baby boomer generation and how to not only cope with the changes, but live a very healthy and active life. Information for baby boomers and beyond. More information is available about diabetes and diabetics.

You’ll also find other health related information like Hearing Aids for those of us over 50 and not hearing as well as we once did.

Copyright 2008 Nicholas Hurd all rights reserved

Author: Nicholas Hurd
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Humorous photo captions

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Quick, Easy, and Economical Diabetic Meal–delicious for Anyone

Posted by diabeticssource on October 2nd, 2009


Most of us always seem to be in a rush.  Our society makes lots of demands on our time.  Yet we want to feed our families good meals and not run thru the fast food drive-up windows too often.  Here are two recipes for a healthy, quick and easy meal that is just what we need.  The ground beef casserole is made in the microwave and the cooked apple topping over ice cream is a great dessert.  Add a salad and you have a complete meal for your family in a matter of minutes.

MICROWAVE GAUCHO CASSEROLE

1 lb lean ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

1 small bell pepper, chopped

1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced Mexican flavored tomatoes, do not drain

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1/4 cup water

1 envelope taco-seasoning mix

1 tsp chili powder

1 1/3 cup uncooked instant brown rice

1 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend

Crumble meat into an ungreased 2 1/2-quart microwave-safe dish.  Add onion and bell pepper, mixing well.  Cover and microwave on high for 6 minutes or until the meat is brown with no pink remaining, stirring every two minutes; drain well.  Stir in beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, taco seasoning, and chili powder.  Cover and microwave on high for 5 to 6 minutes or until bubbly, stirring every couple of minutes.  Stir in rice. 

Transfer mixture to a shallow 2 1/2-quart microwave-safe dish, coated with nonstick cooking spray.  Cover and let stand for 6 to 8 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.  Sprinkle with cheese.  Cover and microwave on high 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is melted.

SAUTEED APPLES A LA MODE

4 large apples, sliced

1/3 cup water

1/3 cup sugar-free maple-flavored pancake syrup

sugar-free vanilla ice cream

In a skillet, combine apples, water, and syrup; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes or until apples are tender.  Place ice cream in serving dishes and ladle warm apple mixture over sugar-free vanilla ice cream.

Serves 6

Enjoy!



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You Can Prepare Meals That Reduce The Problems Associated With Diabetes

Posted by Nicholas Hurd on September 27th, 2009

When someone is diagnosed with diabetes, there are many new challenges that that person has to be able to overcome. Fortunately today, with the help of medication and technology, it is now much easier to live with diabetes, but there are still challenges. For one, there are new foods that are made especially for diabetes. There are also easier and quicker methods to test blood sugar levels. The best advancement of today is the creation of less painful processes of receiving the amount of insulin that your body needs to function. A simple lifestyle change along with better eating habits can help control diabetes, which gives diabetics much more time to live rather than worrying about their disease. It is best to first start in the kitchen.

If you want to find a way to curve your diabetes, you should start by going to the kitchen and finding yourself a diabetic cookbook. Today, there are many types of diabetic cookbooks that you can purchase. These books range from easy simple cooking to making specialty and elegant meals. These recipe books are written by professional chefs or nutritionists that are certified in recipe writing for diabetics. There are also many diabetic associations that have made up their own diabetic cookbooks to hand out during meetings or get-togethers. In fact, the American Diabetes Association released a diabetic cookbook that provides recipes for diabetics, and non diabetics. These meals are healthy and are known as “eating whole.”

The best part about these cookbooks is that they are all able to fit into a fast-paced lifestyle. Since many people today are always on the go, a recipe book full of quick and easy meals is ideal for many people. Being able to cook a nice meal that does not involve tons and tons of ingredients is something that we all want, not just diabetics. These recipes even provide you with substitutions for certain foods if you don’t like them. All of the diabetic cookbooks offer “whole life” recipes, natural foods, local foods, and much more. No matter what you like to eat, these cookbooks are sure to find something for you. Another good part of these cookbooks is that they try to get you to use fresh food instead of frozen food or processed food.

Today, diabetic cookbooks are very popular. The authors of these cookbooks are able to write for not just diabetics, but for people who want to find a way to start eating much healthier, in hopes of not being diagnosed with diabetes. These books are able to provide a healthy change for everyone.

If you visit a local store that offers cookbooks, stop in the cookbook aisle. You are sure to find perfect meal planners that will have you eating some of the healthiest foods you’ve ever eaten in your life.

Nick Hurd writes about aging and baby boomer generation and how to not only cope with the changes, but live a very healthy and active life. http://www.youreover50.com information for baby boomers and beyond. More information is available about diabetes and diabetics.

You’ll also find other health related information like Reducing wrinkles and skin care for those of us over 50.

Author: Nicholas Hurd
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Digital pipeline

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