Diet for High Sugar Level

Improved, healthy eating is a must for anyone diagnosed with high blood sugar. In order to control glucose levels in the blood, a consistent diet that includes vegetables, whole grains and fruits is necessary. Knowing your baseline of the percentage of calories for carbohydrates, fats and protein are needed each day will help put you on the road to a managing your high blood sugar sucessfully.

Choose Healthy Carbohydrates

• Certain foods have a more direct effect on the body's glucose levels; foods high in carbohydrates raise blood glucose levels quickly after being digested. Individuals with high blood sugar are encouraged to eat healthy carbohydrates, which includes vegetables, fruit, whole grains, low-fat or skim dairy products and legumes. According to MayoClinic.com, 45 to 65 percent of calories in a daily diet should consist of carbohydrates.

Increase Fiber-Rich Foods

• Fiber-rich carbohydrates are preferred for people suffering from high blood sugar. Fiber helps to decrease blood sugar levels because it cannot be absorbed or digested by the body. Along with decreasing high blood sugar, fiber-rich foods are known to help cut the risk of heart disease and lower the chance of developing cancer. Foods made with whole wheat flour, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and bran are all examples of foods high in fiber.

Selecting Fats Wisely

• According to MayoClinic.com, less than 10 percent of daily calories should come from saturated fats. High blood sugar increases the development of clogged and hardened arteries, so individuals with the condition need to be diligent about limiting those foods that can accelerate this process. Foods with saturated fat, trans fat and solid fats such as butter and margarine should be avoided. Choose polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as those found in nuts, seeds, and olive and canola oils. Lower-fat substitutes should be used whenever possible. Lean cuts of meat and egg substitutes are encouraged to help fill protein requirements.