For diabetics eating a healthy diet is an essential part of maintaining proper glucose levels. It is important for diabetics to consume the same quantity of food, and at the same time every day. It does not matter if you have Type one or two diabetes, it is vital you control your blood glucose levels daily. What and how much you eat will in large part determine whether you control your sugar levels or not.

Glucose is the main sugar and primary fuel for the body. When diabetics eat too much they can expect their blood sugars to spike upward. Yet if they go to low you become ill. Of course, another determining factor in maintaining proper glucose levels is by taking the right amount of all prescribed medicine. It is also important to have an ample stash of diabetes supplies on hand.

When glucose levels remain too high for an extended period of time you are in danger of developing heart disease, vision difficulties, foot problems, and kidney disease. As mentioned, proper diet and eating the correct amount of food goes a long way in stabilizing blood sugar levels.

The heart of the diabetic diet is The Diabetic Food Pyramid. It is a guide to help you eat properly every day along with correct serving sizes. The Pyramid is separated into six categories. The first category contains grains, beans, and starchy vegetables. Six or more servings a day is recommended. The second category has you eating two to three servings of fruit daily.

The third category is vegetables and you should be eating three to five servings per day. The fourth category is to drink two to three servings of milk every day. The fifth category is to eat meats or substitutes for meat. Two to three servings should be consumed daily. The final category is for fats and sweets. Obviously these items should only be eaten in very small quantities, or not at all.

How many calories to consume is a common question. Your doctor is the best source to answer that. However as a guide, a small woman who exercises should eat about 1200 to 1600 calories per day. A small man who exercises should also eat 1200 to 1600 calories per day. A medium to large man who exercises should consume 2000 to 4000 calories every day. A large woman who exercises should also eat between 2000 to 4000 calories every day. Again, this is only a guide and not a substitute for consulting with your doctor.