The Role of Protein in the Diabetic Diet

There is no such thing as a diabetic diet, however the American Diabetes Association does recommend that you have 50% carbs, 30% fats, and 20% proteins in your daily diet.

The roles of protein include:

* to help stabilize blood sugars
throughout the day
* to provide amino acids to use as
skeletal muscle fuel
* provide a feeling of satiety at meal
times

Protein is required to help the body rebuild, and also provides needed nutrients not found in carbs and fats.

Protein comes from many sources, including:

* meats (also contains fat)
* cheeses (also contains fat)
* nuts (also contains fat)
* soy
* beans and lentils

The type of protein you choose is less important than making sure that you eat some, each day, to support healing and nutrition.

Talk to your doctor, Nutritionist or Registered Dietitian for more information about protein, and how to incorporate adequate supplies of protein into your diet.