Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to convert glucose into energy. The hormone insulin which helps in the conversion is found in low quantities or would possibly not be utilized by the body appropriately in such situations.

Common symptoms of diabetes include extreme thirst, increased hunger, lot of urination, tiredness, weight reduction, problems with vision, respiratory infections, dry skin and tingling in the hands or feet.

Diet plays a major role in effectively managing diabetes. The perfect diabetes diet should offer necessary nutrients required and also help in maintaining adequate sugar levels in the body. Some factors which should be kept in mind while arranging a diabetes diet include the age, gender, height, weight, the quantity of physical activity of an individual. The diet also needs to be further adjusted according to the insulin dosage. If conditions like hypertension or cholesterol are also present, then one must exercise caution in planning the diet and make sure that these problems aren't further worsened.

Start your day with a glass of warm water. You could also take lemon juice in the beginning of the day. Ideally, your breakfast should consist of fruits. Try to go in for fruits that are low in sugar such as guavas, pomegranates, pineapple and oranges. A slice of whole grain bread with butter and a glass of milk can also make for a good breakfast.

Go in for green leafy vegetables for lunch as they have a high nutrient value. Make sure that you steam these vegetables and not use unhealthy cooking strategies such as deep frying.  You can eat celery, brinjal, cabbage, asparagus, spinach and so on. Opt for unprocessed wheat breads for lunch. You could also include curd or buttermilk in your diet as it aids in digestion.

A dinner of fresh plants and cottage cheese makes for an ideal diabetes dinner. If you continue to feel the hunger pangs, drink a pitcher of milk along with a light snack.

Bitter gourd is one food which has proved to outstandingly useful for those suffering from diabetes. This particular vegetable consists of plant insulin which lowers blood sugar levels considerably. If you can’t eat the vegetable, at least consume bitter gourd juice between meals to keep your sugar level in check.

There are some food items , however , which you need to keep away from if you are suffering from diabetes including wheat flour products. White bread, chocolates, pastries, puddings and anything made of refined cereals should be strictly avoided. Tea and coffee intake should also be limited as they may hinder your digestive processes. Diabetics should also refrain from drinking alcohol.

Other then eating healthy, you must also employ healthy cooking practices. Deep frying need to be avoided at all cost. Instead go for food preparation methods such as boiling, broiling, baking or sautéing. Steaming, however, is the best cooking method and takes the least amount of nutrients away from the cooked food. Non salad munchers should select fat or lean meats vs red meat which contains exaggerated levels of fat. Seasonings are also rich in sugar and must be avoided as well. Usage of ketchup, mustard and other dressings should be kept at a minimum.

Just keep these dietary guidelines in mind and you will be able to manage your diabetes effectively.