Food is one of the main factors that directly impacts blood glucose levels--and one you can control. Did you know there's no such thing as a "diabetes diet" anymore? What's important is how food, especially the foods you like, impact your blood glucose levels.

The more you know about nutrition, the more options you'll realize you have. When you make healthy choices, your body will feel its best and your blood glucose is more likely to be in control. So check out a food label, understand the Food Pyramid, and learn to carbohydrate count, so you can live a life without limits.

General recommendations for people with diabetes include:

• Develop a personal meal plan with your healthcare team.
• Schedule regular meal times and maintain a consistent diet to help your medication work effectively.
• When buying prepackaged food items, read ingredient labels carefully.
• Try to limit foods high in sugar, salt, white flour and fat.
• To control ingredients and limit additives, prepare meals from scratch when possible.