The dietary rules for people with diabetes have changed in recent years. Rather than having one set of guidelines for everyone, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) encourages individuals to work with a dietitian to develop a personal plan that they will stick with and that addresses their own individual health concerns and goals.

Steps:

1. Discuss your food preferences with a dietitian. Tell the dietitian what foods you like, dislike, and what you’re willing to try. You will be more likely to stick to your meal plan if it contains foods you enjoy.
   
   
2. Ask your dietitian how many calories you need to maintain a healthy weight. Becoming overweight is even unhealthier for people with diabetes because it may increase your blood pressure and put strain on your heart.
   
   
3. Discuss a weight-reduction plan with a dietitian if you are overweight.
   
   
4. Use methods of cooking that reduce fat. Stir-fry, bake, broil or roast meats and vegetables. Avoid frying (different from stir-fry) and especially deep-frying.
   
   
5. Get no more than 30 percent of your calories from fat. Keep saturated fats to no more than 10 percent of total fat intake. Excess fat is unhealthy for anyone, and diabetics are two to four times as likely to suffer from heart disease.
   
    
6. If you have high cholesterol or triglycerides, ask your dietitian or doctor how to reduce them. You may need to restrict your saturated fat intake even more than the average person.
   
   
7. Follow the meal plan your dietitian gives you so that you get the proper balance of fat, protein, and carbohydrate, and the vitamins and minerals you need for good health.
   
   
8. Eat a wide variety of foods. This helps keep meals interesting and ensures better nutrition. When trying new foods, check your blood sugar and see how the new foods or new combination of foods affect blood glucose levels.
   
   
9. Factor sugar-containing foods into your meal plan. Sugar is no longer forbidden since research shows that table sugar affects glucose levels about the same as starches. But sugary foods supply calories with little fiber, vitamins, or minerals. Save sugary foods for special occasions.
   
   
10. Ask your dietitian about alcohol. Although many people with diabetes can have alcoholic drinks, alcohol may interact with certain diabetes drugs or cause low blood sugar. People with certain diabetic complications, like nerve damage, may need to avoid alcohol. The ADA recommends drinking no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.

Cooking when you have diabetes isn't terribly difficult once a good meal plan is worked out. Work with a professional to develop a nutritionally balanced, personal meal plan.

Note: If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.