The basic principle behind a calorie-controlled diabetic diet is, of course, to monitor your daily calorie intake. A 1,200-1,600 calorie diet is based on consuming no more than those calories per day. The benefits of these diabetic diets is that they give you the opportunity to control your blood sugar levels, this in turn will give you better control over your weight and reduce heart complaints. The 1,200-1,600 calorie daily diets are geared towards petite women who exercise, petite to medium-sized women who want to lose weight, and medium-sized women who don’t exercise much. An important factor when starting these diet plans is to make sure you are eating a complete and balanced diet that includes the recommended daily nutritional intake.
The key to any calorie-controlled diabetic diet is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main source of glucose or sugar, this is also your body’s main source of energy. A 1200-1600 calorie diabetic diet works to control fat, protein, fat and carbohydrate intake.
You will need to ensure that you are consuming only the correct number of calories per day. This will mean gaining an understanding of the caloric values in each food type and serving size. One gram of carbohydrates equals four calories.
There is no big secret to these diabetic diet plans other than eating a healthy balanced diet. A controlled diabetic diet is all about maintaining a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that you eat on your 1,200 to 1,600 calorie plan. For diabetics, it is recommended to divide meals into 4 to 6 snacks and small meals.
6 servings of starches
2 servings of milk and yogurt
3 servings of vegetables
2 servings of meat or meat substitute
2 servings of fruit
Up to 3 servings of fat
The above gives you a guide to suggested servings from each food group. Sticking to your 1200-1600 calorie diet plan is essential because any excess calorie intake can increase your body fat.
To help you succeed, you can pack your groceries the night before, making sure you have your fresh food maid. Keep your food simple to start with, just start by counting calories and work your way up from there. Try to eat your food a little slower and avoid foods that are high in calories and fat.