The goals of a diabetic diet are to control blood sugar and normalize or maintain body weight. While your needs and results may vary based on your size, age, and gender, the 1,800-calorie diet with three moderately-portioned meals and two to three snacks should achieve this result.

First consider which foods provide the most nutrition. While an apple and a cookie may have the same number of calories, the apple will have more fiber, more vitamins, take longer for your body to digest, and be more filling. The cookie contains fat that your body is more likely to store rather than burn for energy. The protein found in meats, dairy products, and beans is a good source of energy that your body will digest and burn more slowly compared to simple sugars. You want to be careful with most fruit juices because they contain concentrated sugar. It is better to eat a piece of fruit and drink a glass of water.

Next, pay attention to the serving size. Get a general idea of ​​the size of a three-ounce serving of meat. It may be smaller than what it is accused of eating. Also in the case of starches like rice, pasta or potatoes, be sure to measure accurately, as this can drastically affect the caloric content of your meal. The inability to accurately measure portion size will sabotage your diet goals.

With an 1800 calorie diet it is also important to eat frequently to avoid ravenous hunger. Plan to have a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack. Some people will also enjoy a late night snack. Not only will this keep you from being overly hungry, it will stabilize your blood sugar level. Eating the right foods in the right portions at the right times will help you succeed.