The Pattern of Eating for Diabetes Management

To keep your blood sugar levels steady, try to eat the same amount of food, at about the same time each day.

Eat three meals per day at regular times and evenly spaced throughout the day.
Start with your day with a high fibre breakfast such as cereal or toast. Have some skim milk and a small piece of fruit on the side.
Lunch and dinner should be made up of mostly vegetables and smaller portions of whole grains and lean protein. Most vegetables are essentially free foods. They contain very little carbohydrate but are nutrient packed and contain fibre. Some starchy or sweet vegetables – like squash, sweet potato and peas – may require smaller servings.
Learn portion control. Use measuring cups, spoons and a kitchen scale to learn what a recommended serving looks like. You may also benefit from learning how to read food labels more closely.
Try not to skip meals or snacks. It can throw off your blood sugar levels. Sometimes, several small meals may be the best for blood sugar control.
Drink water or diet/sugar free beverages. Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink, keep something hydrating with you at all times.
Carry healthy snacks with you if you think you might get off schedule. Take any medication and check your blood sugar level on your regular schedule even if you are away from work or home. Bringing food or snacks with you may help prevent racing for the fast food outlet in order to stick to your usual pattern of eating.
See a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator to help you work out a meal plan and pattern of eating that will work best for you.