What I need to know about Eating and Diabetes

Eating and Diabetes

You can take good care of yourself and your diabetes by learning

• what to eat
• how much to eat
• when to eat

Making wise food choices can help you

• feel good every day
• lose weight if you need to
• lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other problems caused by diabetes

Healthful eating helps keep your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, in your target range. Physical activity and, if needed, diabetes medicines also help. The diabetes target range is the blood glucose level suggested by diabetes experts for good health. You can help prevent health problems by keeping your blood glucose levels on target.

Blood Glucose Levels

What should my blood glucose levels be?

Target Blood Glucose Levels for People with Diabetes

Before meals	70 to 130
1 to 2 hours after the start of a meal	less than 180

Talk with your health care provider about your blood glucose target levels and write them here:

My Target Blood Glucose Levels

Before meals	______ to ______
1 to 2 hours after the start of a meal	less than ______

Ask your doctor how often you should check your blood glucose on your own. Also ask your doctor for an A1C test at least twice a year. Your A1C number gives your average blood glucose for the past 3 months. The results from your blood glucose checks and your A1C test will tell you whether your diabetes care plan is working.

How can I keep my blood glucose levels on target?

You can keep your blood glucose levels on target by

• making wise food choices
• being physically active
• taking medicines if needed

For people taking certain diabetes medicines, following a schedule for meals, snacks, and physical activity is best. However, some diabetes medicines allow for more flexibility. You’ll work with your health care team to create a diabetes plan that’s best for you.