Pantry Makeover:
Beyond Counting Carbs

Aired on Lifetime Television
April 13 and May 25, 2008
Show 508

Diet is closely related to health, and smart food choices are within your control. People with diabetes don't need special food, but it's important to choose the right foods sensibly. One way to make that easier is to swap out the contents of your pantry with better-for-you food choices.  The average person needs about 250 grams of carbohydrates every day for energy. A good rule of thumb is to track "carb choices". One carb choice is about 15 grams of carbohydrates, and each meal can contain 3 or 4 carb choices, with snacks consisting of one additional carb choice each. Arrange your pantry, refrigerator and freezer so you have foods handy that fit these carb choices. For example, cut up vegetable sticks and keep them stored in containers in the refrigerator. Use skim milk, light mayonnaise and dessert items that are sugar-free to keep your diet healthier, yet still enjoyable. Take advantage of carb-controlled snacks in pre-packaged amounts, and don't forget to go for the whole grains whenever you can. The bottom line is, a few sensible adjustments to your pantry and refrigerator can go a long way toward keeping diabetes under control while keeping meal and snack times enjoyable.