It can be difficult for a newly diagnosed diabetic to know what they can eat. Deciphering diabetic diets can be difficult. Most are filled with Do Not Eat warnings and lack easy to understand information about what you can and should eat. Here are a few things that need to be included in diabetic diets and a few things that you can throw in to change it up a little.

Foods That Must Be Included In Diabetic Diets

• Raw citrus fruits and vegetables. There are plenty available to prevent dietary boredom. Non-starchy vegetables like spinach, carrots and green beans are essential. Tomatoes are a great way to add variety.
• Whole grains instead of processed grains. Brown rice in place of white or whole grain spaghetti on pasta night.
• Substitute fish for red meat at least twice a week. Only eat lean cuts of red meat.
• Sweet potatoes instead of white. Sweet potatoes have less starch and more fiber. They offer a slower release of sugars than their counterparts.

Foods To Add To Diabetic Diets For Variety

1. Berries. Whatever your favorite is, they are all antioxidant powerhouses that also offer vitamins and fiber. You can make a parfait by alternating the fruit with light, non-fat yogurt for added variety.
2. Nuts are a great way to fit a snack into diabetic diets without having to worry about raising your blood sugar.
3. Have an occasional sugary snack. Portion control is the key.

Diabetic diets do not have to sentence you to a life of boring, repetitive meals. If you plan carefully, you can still enjoy a few of your favorite sugary snacks. Once you are familiar with what you can and cannot eat, you will be ready to go back to your favorite restaurant, as well.