Diet and Disease Help for Type I Diabetes A Dietary Guide By: Candance Gabel, MS, RD, LD, Associate State Nutrition Specialist, Family Nutrition Education Program Adapted from: Prevention and Therapeutic Nutrition Handbook

Family Nutrition Education Programs Nutrition and Lifeskills for Missouri Families

 If you have Type I Diabetes Mellitus then you need to focus on regulating your blood glucose (sugar) and lipid (fat) levels along with maintaining a desirable body weight and consuming a diet that meets your nutrient needs. 

Here are some suggestions to help you follow your diabetic meal plan and keep your blood sugar levels regulated.

• Eat 3-5 meals a day at approximately the same time each day. 
• If you must have something sweet to eat try sugar-free alternatives such as sugar-free sodas, gelatin, puddings, cookies. We recommend you choose low-fat snacks such as fresh fruit, low-fat crackers, and popcorn.
• Choose angel food or pound cake to celebrate birthdays and special holidays. 
• Eat a high fiber cereal that contains 6 grams of fiber per serving for breakfast; avoid those cereals that are high in sugar.
• Replace fruit juices with fresh fruits. 
• Make sure any canned fruit you purchase is canned in water or in its own juice, rather than in syrup.
• Drink low-fat (1%) milk to reduce fat intake. 
• Make exercise a part of your daily schedule. 
• Monitor glucose levels at least two times per day. 
• If you have specific questions regarding your diet prescription see a registered dietitian or your physician.

Related Topics

• Diabetes Facts
• Help for Type II Diabetes
• Signs and Symptoms
• The Basics of Diabetes
• Diabetes PowerPoint Presentation
• Diabetes Post-Test

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