FEET

Diabetics always have foot checks when they see the doctor. Taking care of ones feet is very important. But did you know that over 10% of the body's 206 bones are in the foot? That's right, 26 bones are in the foot. Eat properly to protect your bones, even standing requires good bones.

PORTION CONTROL WHEN EATING OUT

To help you control portion size when eating out (since most restaurant serve a meal equal to at least two servings), ask for a to-go box when the waiter or waitress brings your meal. Immediately put half of the meal in the box out of sight. And the bonus, another meal ready to be warmed up tomorrow!

BABY STEPS

Do you have a hard time eating right? Take baby steps and you will be amazed how easy it is. Start with something as simple as choosing healthy foods more often than unhealthy ones. Each time you succeed it will give you confidence to do it again.

A few simple examples are to have a sugar-free cookie rather than a regular one. Or when baking, substitute a small amount of whole-wheat flour for an equal amount of the called for all-purpose. If fresh vegetables aren't available to you, choose frozen over canned. Choose fresh fruit over baking them into a pie. Once you get used to the small changes, you will find yourself going with the healthy choice.

OATS AND NUTS ARE IMPORTANT TO DIABETICS

Oats and nuts should be major foods in diabetics meal plans. That is not to say you have to eat loads of either. Oats are easy to work into the diet through morning cereal, snack bars and mixes, etc. When you eat nuts, use the unsalted variety and do not smother them in candy coatings. Try to work a portion of both oats and nuts into you diet everyday.