Diabetic Diet

• The two main types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is the autoimmune type that requires the use of insulin. It is almost always possible to control type 2 diabetes with proper exercise and diet. There is also gestational diabetes, which is somewhat similar to type 2 and occurs in pregnant women when the chemicals in the blood resist the insulin in the body. The diet of the diabetic person differs from a normal diet and generally consists of a low calorie intake. The best foods to eat are fish, lean meats, green leafy vegetables, other high-fiber and low calorie vegetables like broccoli, cucumbers, peppers, cauliflower, cabbage and asparagus. It is also suggested that food be raw or undercooked as this is more beneficial than overcooked food. When planning a diabetic diet there are four basic approaches.
  
  

High-Carbohydrate-and-Fiber Diet

• This approach is also called the HCF diet and contains 20 percent protein, 10 percent fat and 70 percent carbohydrate. Therefore, it limits the fats and puts more emphasis on fewer processed carbohydrates. It contains 40 to 50 g of fiber per day such as whole grains, brown rice, beans and lentils instead of white flour and white rice and includes starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn.
  
  

Low-Glycemic Index Diet

• This approach is somewhat similar to the HFC diet but allows a little more fat while limiting the intake of carbohydrates.
  
  

Exchange Diet

• This approach used to be referred to as the ADA, American Dietary Association, Diet, and is best for people who are either not willing or not able to make a complete change in their food choices. Exchange diet allows all foods as long as they are taken in controlled portions. This diet is also low in fat and a little higher in carbohydrates although it allows all types of carbohydrates including breakfast cereals and white bread. The recommended allowance in the diet is 10 to 20 percent protein and the rest is divided between fat and carbohydrates, with an emphasis on monounsaturated fat.
  
  

Carbohydrate Counting

• This approach is a variation of the exchange diet and allows a strictly fixed amount of carbohydrates for every meal. There is no limit to the type of carbohydrates that can be used. This approach does not require keeping track of the fat and protein intake hence it is best suited for thin people who cannot control their blood sugar levels with insulin.