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| - From: www.everydayhealth.com There's no need to cut the healthy options off your shopping list - many of the best foods for controlling blood sugar are economical choices. Diabetes can take a toll on your budget because of doctor's visits, medication costs and other expenses. But don't let a tight budget lead to a poor diet. You don't need expensive diabetic or glucose-free foods to eat right when you have diabetes. The foundation foods of your meal plan - beans, rice, and whole-grain breads - are inexpensive. Fill your cupboards with other nutritious foods using these tips:
* For snacks, try popcorn, pretzels, or cereal.
* Fresh vegetables in season are a great buy. Otherwise, frozen vegetables are similar nutritionally. Canned vegetables have similar fibre and mineral content but have lost their vitamins.
* Buy fruits in season for the best taste and bargain prices, and give the local farmer's market a try.
* Buy or make plain yogurt and add your own fresh fruit.
* Use powdered fat-free milk for cooking and baking - it's inexpensive and stays fresh for a long time if the box is refrigerated.
* Make meat a side dish rather than the whole meal, or make meatless meals throughout the week.
* Choose fats, sweets, and alcohol less often to benefit both your budget and your diabetes.
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