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Diabetes Food Pyramid
For people with diabetes, a special food pyramid is used to describe what and how much to eat each day. Consisting of six food groups, this pyramid is no substitute for a diet created by a dietician or doctor. The number of servings needed every day is not the same for everyone, so this food pyramid offers a range of servings.
What Is the Diabetes Food Pyramid?
The Diabetes Food Pyramid is a general guide of what and how much to eat each day as part of your diabetic diet. It is similar to the Food Pyramid you see on many food packages. The Diabetes Food Pyramid is divided into six groups. You should eat more foods from the largest group at the base of the pyramid and less from the smaller groups at the top of the pyramid.
The number of servings needed every day is not the same for everyone, so for a diabetic diet, a range of servings is given to ensure you get the foods you need for good health.
The food groups and suggested servings per day as part of the Diabetes Food Pyramid include:
- Grains, beans, and starchy vegetables: These foods at the base of the pyramid are a good source of B vitamins and fiber -- 6 or more servings/day.
- Fruits: These contain vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, and fiber -- 3 to 4 servings/day.
- Vegetables: These provide vitamins A and C, folate, and fiber -- 3 to 5 servings/day.
- Milk: This is a great source of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D -- 2 to 3 servings/day.
- Meats and meat substitutes: These are a good source of iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein -- 2 to 3 servings/day.
- Fats, sweets, and alcohol: These foods at the tip of the pyramid should be eaten in small amounts. Fats and oils should be limited because they are high in calories. Sweets are high in sugar and should only be eaten once in a while.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD