Ask the Doctor: Best Foods to Control Blood Sugar Levels

Question: What should I eat to keep my blood sugar in control?

 Rajiv Roy, MD
Dr. Rajiv Roy

Dr. Rajiv Roy with the Sharp Rees-Stealy Chula Vista Endocrinology Department, responds:

A diabetic diet should be high in a variety of fruits and vegetables. The diet should emphasize whole grain foods, substituting whole wheat bread for white bread and brown rice for white rice when possible. Dried beans such as lentils, fish and lean cuts of meat are good protein choices.

Water and sugar-free diet drinks are acceptable, but sugary drinks and an excess of juice should be avoided.

When cooking, it is good to use liquid cooking oils, such as olive oil, instead of solid fats. High-calorie, high-fat snack foods such as cookies, candy and regular ice cream should be avoided.

Finally, watch portion size because even healthy foods can lead to weight gain when eaten in excess.

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To learn more about Sharp's diabetes services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego endocrinologist or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about diabetes, visit Diabetes Care in Adult Health or read the Diabetes News archive.