Eating Well

Healthy eating and an active lifestyle are important for everyone, including people with diabetes. Having a healthy diet and being active is an important part of managing diabetes because it will help manage your blood glucose levels and your body weight.

• Meals that are recommended for people with diabetes are the same as for those without diabetes
• There is no need to prepare separate meals or buy special foods
• Everyone including family and friends can enjoy the same healthy and tasty meals together
• As a starting point, we recommend people follow the Australian Dietary Guidelines Healthy Eating for Adults and Healthy Eating for Children
• Everyone’s needs are different so we recommend everyone with diabetes visit a dietitian for personal advice. Read our statement 'One Diet Does Not Fit All'
• If you are interested in following a low carb approach, please read Low carbohydrate eating for people with diabetes

Diabetes Australia recommends that everyone with diabetes visit a dietitian for personal advice. For more personalised information, visit an Accredited Practising Dietitian. To find a dietitian in your area, contact:

• The Dietitians Association of Australia or call 1800 812 942
• the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700.

Dietitians are accessible and are usually based in many local hospitals, diabetes centres and community health centres and are also listed in the telephone directory.

Medicare may provide a rebate on dietitians’ fees if you have a chronic condition and are referred by your doctor. If you have private health insurance you may also receive a rebate from your health fund, depending on the type of cover you have.

• What should I eat?
• Eating out
• Takeaway
• Between meal snacks
• Modifying recipes