A Plating Method for Managing Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body turns sugar into energy. If you have it, you know the important role food plays in managing it. BCBSRI Senior Dietitian Gayle Maloney helps our members who are living with diabetes by reviewing their diets and delivering personalized guidance. Depending on the member’s needs, one of the tools she may recommend is this plating method that can help you visualize your portions. This approach could help manage your blood sugar and help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight.1 It’s an easy way to take the guesswork out of preparing your meals, helping you balance portion sizes of carbohydrates without any calculating, counting, or weighing.
The method involves dividing your plate into sections to ensure a balanced meal. Half of your plate should be filled with non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and peppers. These vegetables are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them ideal for managing blood sugar levels.
One-quarter of your plate should contain lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, tofu, or beans. Protein helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full longer.
The remaining quarter of your plate should be reserved for whole grains or starchy vegetables, such as brown rice, quinoa, peas, corn, or white or sweet potatoes. These foods provide essential nutrients and energy but should be consumed in moderation. Fiber can help you feel full and may not raise your blood sugar the way other carbohydrates can.
Keep in mind that this method may not be perfect for all people with diabetes. The amount of carbohydrates you need can depend on your size and activity level. Always check with your provider before significantly changing your diet, especially if you’re taking medication that lowers your blood sugar.
The Diabetes Plate method is just one of many ways to manage your condition. Working with a BCBSRI Care Manager can help you identify other approaches. They can help you create a plan to better manage your diabetes. You can take advantage of our Care Management Program at no additional cost through your BCBSRI health plan2. Get in touch with a Care Manager by calling (401) 459-2273 or emailing care@bcbsri.org.
For more information on diabetes, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
1Diet is one factor that may help in blood sugar management. Managing blood sugars may aid in lowering complication risk though may or may not reduce medications.
2 Care Management is not available for Plan 65 members. If your primary care provider is part of a patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a BCBSRI Care Manager will refer you to the Care Manager at your PCMH. Care management at your PCMH is offered at no additional cost through your BCBSRI plan.