Although there is no single ideal diet for diabetes, it is essential to increase minimally processed plant foods and decrease less nutritious highly processed foods that can be loaded with sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. Some people find optimal blood sugar control to be achieved with a whole foods plant-based diet, where others find a low-carbohydrate diet or consistent carbohydrate diet to be more sustainable. It is important that you work with your doctor and dietitian to help determine the best diet pattern to control your individual blood sugar that also fits into your preferences and lifestyle. Aim to increase your intake of non-starchy vegetables, lean protein, and fiber with consistent carbohydrate intake to prevent any unwanted blood sugar lows.
Check out this sample 1-day meal plan for an idea of a diabetes-friendly diet plan:

Breakfast– Greek Yogurt Parfait
1 cup low fat plain Greek yogurt
½ cup raspberries
¼ cup chopped walnuts
1 tbsp ground flax seed
10-oz hot green tea

Morning snack
1 apple
2 tbsp sugar-free natural almond butter
16oz water + lemon


Lunch- Salmon Salad
1 packet salmon
2 heaping cups of spinach/mixed greens
¼ cup shredded carrots
¼ cup slivered almonds
2 tbsp sugar-free vinaigrette dressing
6 wheat thin crackers
16oz water + lemon

Afternoon snack
1 red bell pepper, sliced
¼ cup garlic hummus
16oz water + lemon
Dinner- Vegetarian Tacos + Salad
Tacos
2 small corn tortillas
¾ cup pinto beans mixed with 1 tbsp low-sodium taco seasoning
¼ medium avocado
¼ cup pico de gallo/salsa
¼ cup shredded cheese
Salad
1 cup shredded lettuce
¼ cup pico de gallo/salsa
2 tbsp low-fat sour cream
16oz water + lemon
Evening Snack
½ cup blueberries
1 low-fat mozzarella cheese stick
