How to Follow the 1,800 Calorie Diabetic Diet

The 1,800 calorie diabetic diet is one of the most flexible around. Because it allows for enough food to keep anybody satisfied while still controlling calorie intake and helping with weight loss, this is often the choice of dietitians and doctors who need to provide a general diet suitable for most diabetic people.

Instructions

1

Follow a meal plan that allows for several small portions of food throughout the day, rather than just a few large dishes. This will control appetite, stabilize blood sugar and help you lose weight while keeping your energy up.

2

Access the food database at the American Diabetes Association to get ideas on how to modify your diet to allow for 1,800 calorie intake (see Resources below). From making healthy food choices to learning how to shop to follow a 1,800 calorie diet, the website can answer many frequently asked questions about nutrition.

3

Reduce your carbohydrate intake to no more than 6 servings a day, preferably one with each meal and snack. Allow for substitutions when appropriate, but stay away from refined carbohydrates (such as white flour and sugars) and be aware that a lot of packaged food (including canned vegetables or frozen dishes) may contain added sugar.

4

Eat a small breakfast and dinner, and a larger lunch. Include 1 serving of carbohydrates in each meal (you can have 2 for lunch), plus servings of protein and fat. An example of a healthy lunch or dinner (about 450 calories) would include 2 ounces of lean protein (like salmon or skinless chicken), along with 2/3 cup cooked brown rice and a cup of skim milk. Add 2 servings of vegetables (a fruit at lunchtime) to round out the meal.

5

Keep your snacks under 150 calories. Examples of balanced snacks that can fit into an 1,800 calorie diet include 1/2 cup of cottage cheese with a small peach, 8 almonds, 1 cup of nonfat sugar-free yogurt (which contains both natural carbohydrates and protein) or 1 ounce of turkey breast with a slice of whole wheat bread.