How to Follow the 1500 Calorie Diabetic Diet

Although easier said than done, prediabetics and diabetics should attempt to lose weight, if needed, and maintain a healthy weight. Imperative to a diabetic’s health, weight reduction can stabilize blood glucose levels, which is imperative for the prevention of potential diabetes complications.

Always seek the advice of a health care provider prior to beginning any diet.

1. Set up a menu plan. Both prediabetics and diabetics can benefit from eating no more than 1,500 calories per day. A diabetic diet generally consists of eating three meals and two to three snacks per day. Eating frequently prevents blood sugar spikes and maintains healthy glucose levels. Additionally, eating throughout the day assists appetite satisfaction.


2. Stabilize your blood sugar in the morning with a balanced breakfast that includes two carbohydrates (or 30 grams in total carbs), and one protein, fruit and fat. Mind you, keep your caloric intake at around 250 calories. Whole-wheat products and protein tend to stave away hunger. Many products claim to contain “whole wheat” but actually do not. Check the ingredient list. The first item listed should say “whole wheat flour” not “enriched whole wheat.”


3. Add two additional proteins and one vegetable to your lunch and supper, bringing your caloric intake to approximately 400 calories at each meal. Be aware that, although healthy, some vegetables contain more carbohydrates than others do, such as potatoes or carrots.


4. Select two to three snacks per day, eaten between meals. Typically, snacks include no more than two carbohydrates. Healthy choices include a small apple, crackers and cheese, and graham crackers and skim milk.


5. For some, setting up a meal plan with a diabetes nutritionist leaves out the guesswork. He or she will allocate the amount of carbohydrates, proteins, produce and fats you may have at each meal based on a 1500-calorie diet.