Where Do I Find a Good Diet for a Diabetic?

Eating well, with diabetes, is less about following a strict diet and more about making healthy food choices. Diabetics also need to stick to a regular eating schedule and may need to eat several times a day, to keep blood sugar levels in check. For many, knowing what constitutes moderation and which foods are most beneficial is a major obstacle. There are several places where a diabetic can find good dietary advice.

Diabetic Organizations

Check with national organizations, like the American Diabetes Association or organizations in your area . Many of these organizations work with local health care professionals and provide nutritional materials to the public. They may also have websites, like the American Diabetic Association website, with comprehensive information on meal planning, recipes and other issues specific to diabetic nutrition. Diabetic organizations should have reliable information. For example, the American Diabetes Association is a reputable and respected organization devoted to diabetes care and education.

U.S. Government Resources

Consult The National Institutes of Health (NIH), which has several organizations that specialize in diabetes education and information. The National Diabetes Education Program has several publications, including a diabetic cookbook, available online. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases also has nutritional information. The government resources are free, reputable and backed by medical science.

Diet Companies and Meal Programs

Look into companies like e-Diets and Weight Watchers, which offer diabetic diet plans. eDiets has its own plan or matches the user with another plan, like Atkins. Diet companies do all the meal planning but the diabetic still has to purchase and prepare his own meals. There are also several mail-order food programs, like Nutrisystem D and Diabetic Meal Programs. The diabetic has to buy fresh vegetables and fruits, but the company provides the rest of the meals--and sometimes desserts. The downside to diet companies and meal plans is that they usually have fees and some places may require you sign a contract. Additionally, some of the packaged foods may have a lot of sodium and not all diet companies are reputable.

Registered Dietitians

Enlist the aid of a registered dietitian (RD). RDs are specially trained to deal with special populations, like diabetics. RDs can also help the diabetic plan meals and re-learn healthy food habits. Even meeting once a week with a dietitian can help keep the diabetic on track. The cost varies by location but insurance may cover some of the expense. An RD may be worth the cost because the diabetic will learn new skills, which will last long after he has stopped seeing the RD.