Making healthy choices

Following a healthful diet is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your diabetes. Here are some tips to enhance your overall health and blood glucose control.

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• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Use whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables. They contain fiber and important vitamins and minerals.
• Eat small- to medium-sized portions.
• Eat less fat, especially less saturated fat. Choose lean meats and low-fat dairy products, snacks and desserts. Try light, low-fat and fat-free products in place of regular products.
• Limit foods high in added fat and sugar. Foods such as pies, pastries, cakes, rich desserts and sweetened soft drinks should be reserved for special occasions and eaten in small amounts.
• Eat at relatively consistent times each day.
• Be physically active.

Cutting back on fat

Cutting back on fat can help you lose weight and reduce your cholesterol. If you take oral medication for diabetes, losing weight can reduce the amount of medication you need. You can cut fat if you:

• bake, broil or grill meats
• use less oil for frying
• use cooking spray instead of oil or lard for frying
• trim the fat off meat before you cook it
• take the skin off chicken and turkey before you eat it

Several cookbooks are available online at The Stores @ Park Nicollet, and at four Health & Care Store @ Park Nicollet locations.

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