We used to teach patients that there are good and bad food for diabetes.  We no longer do this because living with diabetes is a long term affair.  Instructing patients to avoid certain foods is ineffective not only because patients may not follow it, but it also severely impairs the patient's quality of life.

 

Instead, we try to instruct patients on how to incorporate the food they like into a well balanced meal plan.  No food is off-limits as long as portion control and balance are kept in mind.  To achieve this goal, I would suggest that you consult with a registered dietitian (RD) or a certified diabetes educator (CDE) to come up with a meal plan that is right for you.

 

Your question probably has more to do with avoiding foods that might lead to diabetes. In general, consuming too many calories is one of the primary drivers leading to the development of diabetes.  So, cutting back on calories in general is the first step.  In addition, it is suggested that frequent consumption of sugary drinks and smoking also raises the risk for diabetes.

 

Answer by: William Hsu, M.D.