How It Works Diabetes is a disease that affects the body's ability to use glucose as a source of fuel. When glucose is utilized improperly, it can build up in the bloodstream, creating higher than normal blood sugar levels. Left unchecked, elevated blood sugar levels may lead to the development of more serious long-term complications like blindness and heart and kidney disease. The diabetic diet focuses on foods low in cholesterol and fat, as cholesterol and fat have been linked to heart disease, a common problem in diabetic patients.
Diabetics can eat sugary foods, but the rule is moderation.
Eat too much, and it can send blood glucose level up higher than expected. Checking your blood glucose at this point tells you how high your blood glucose went from what you ate. For good diabetes control, keep your after-meal blood glucose levels at 180 or below. Antioxidants such as beta carotene and the vitamins C and E may protect against heart disease, while magnesium, phosphorous and calcium are minerals that may keep blood pressure levels under control. What is more important is the total amount of carbohydrate consumed, not the source.