We believe in empowering you through education and information. While the updated USDA Food Guide Pyramid offers healthier food choices for all Americans, if you have or are at risk for having diabetes, you need to know more. Weight loss is directly related to improved control of your diabetes. We recommend fewer carbohydrates and more protein to help you eat less and lose weight. Our evidence-based clinical nutrition guidelines can also help you improve your cardiovascular health, reduce body fat and increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin.

Joslin Diabetes Center recommendations:

• Carbohydrates: 40-50 percent from carbohydrates, including at least 20-35 grams of fiber. Best carbohydrate/high-fiber sources: fresh vegetables, fruits, beans and whole-grain foods. Eat less of these carbs: pasta, white bread, white potatoes and sugary cereals.
• Protein: 20-30 percent from protein (unless you have kidney disease). Best protein sources: fish, skinless chicken or turkey, nonfat or low-fat dairy products, tofu and legumes (beans and peas).
• Fat: 30-35 percent from fat (mostly mono- and polyunsaturated fats). Best fat sources: olive oil, canola oil, nuts, seeds and fatty fish like salmon.

To initiate and maintain weight loss, we recommend losing just one pound every one to two weeks by reducing daily calories by 250 to 500 calories.

An essential component of any healthy lifestyle is physical activity. Exercise is a proven way to help you control your diabetes. Joslin encourages a target of 30-60 minutes of modest-intensity physical activity (including cardiovascular, stretching and strength training) most days of the week, with a minimum of 150–175 minutes per week.

Check out our exercise programs, such as Exercising Economically and Yoga.

Our Registered Dietitians, Certified Diabetes Educators, are available five days a week.  Counseling offices are located at SNHMC West campus, 29 Northwest Blvd, Nashua.


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For more information or to arrange an appointment with a Registered Dietitian, please call Joslin Diabetes Center affiliate at SNHMC at (603) 577-5760.