MyPyramid.gov

Nutrition is essential for successful diabetes management. Every person with should receive education about diabetes and nutrition, as well as have an individualized meal plan appropriate for you personal lifestyle and diabetes management goals.

The food guide pyramid is an illustration of foods to eat according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The pyramid is a general guide or outline of what and how much to eat each day for choosing a well-balanced eating plan.

• Fats, oils and sweets are high in calories because they are known to be high in calories and have little to no nutritional value. Examples: candy, soft drinks, sugars, oils, creams, butter, margarine, mayonnaise, and salad dresings.
  
  
• Milk, yogurt and cheese are a good source of protein, calcium and other essential vitamins, they must be consumed in moderation.
  
  
• Meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs and nuts are high in protein, iron and zinc and must also be consumed in moderation.
  
  
• Vegetables are rich in vitamins, fiber and minerals and should be consumed on a daily basis.
  
  
• Fruits are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals.
  
  
• Bread, Cereal, Rice & pasta Group rich in fiber, B vitamins and some minerals, and high in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are our most readily available source of energy and should be consumed in moderation.

Being physically active is one of the most important steps that people of all ages can take to improve their health. Increasing physical activity by participating in planned exercise is very beneficial, especially for individuals with diabetes. Here are some of the benefits of regular exercise:

• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints
  
  
• Helps control blood pressure and may reduce your chances of developing diabetes
  
  
• Promotes psychological well-being and self-esteem
  
  
• Make exercise a life-long habit by choosing activities that are fun and can fit easily into your daily schedule.
  
  
• Daily aerobic exercise is recommended - the more vigorous, the better. Try jogging, fast walking, biking, aerobic dancing, swimming, water aerobics and jumping rope.
  
  
• Begin slowly with mild exercise and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise.
  
  
• Exercise aerobically up to at six (6) times per week.
  

• Strengthening and flexibility activities are also encouraged.