Understanding Food

Carbohydrate, protein and fat are the 3 primary sources of nutrition in a balanced diet. While alcohol has calories, it is not one of the 3 main sources of nutrition in the diet. Leafy vegetables also have some carbohydrates, but they do not supply all of your daily carbohydrate requirements.

About ½ (45-65%) of your calories each day come from carbohydrates. This is the case whether you have diabetes or not. The exact amount of carbohydrates you need each day depends on your calorie goals, activity level and personal preferences. A registered dietitian can help you choose a carbohydrate goal and daily meal plan that will keep your food, medication and physical activity in mind.

During digestion, carbohydrates break down in your body to single units of sugar, called glucose, affecting your blood glucose level. Fat does not break down to glucose, and neither does protein.

Starch, fruit and milk all contain carbohydrate. Cheese, steak, chicken, and fish are all types of protein, whereas olive oil and butter are types of fat.

All three choices are helpful resources when it comes to planning healthy, balanced meals. However, the best answer is "All of the above". Choose My Plate and the Exchange Lists for Diabetes are two systems designed to help you plan a balanced diet. Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian for individualized goal setting. A registered dietitian can help you choose a meal planning system, and calorie goal that keeps your food, medication and physical activity in mind.