The American Diabetes Association's Standards of Care 2026 recommend an individualized eating plan built on a Mediterranean-style, low-glycemic pattern: whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish and lean protein, with limited refined carbs, added sugar and processed foods. A simple plate rule — one-third whole grains, one-third vegetables, one-third quality protein — puts most of the guidance into practice.
The 2026 Standards of Care in Diabetes emphasize individualized nutrition management and recommend the Mediterranean diet pattern with low-glycemic-index foods. The revisions also set explicit daily targets for dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids for the first time, underlining nutrition's central role in glucose control.
Oats, quinoa and other intact whole grains — the base of the plate's first third.
Soybeans, chickpeas, lentils — fiber-rich protein that pairs well with grains.
Almonds, walnuts — a small handful works as a snack or topping.
Salmon, mackerel — a primary source of the omega-3 fatty acids the 2026 standards target (1–2 g/day).
Chicken breast, turkey — the plate's protein third, alongside plant proteins.
Limit added sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages.
White bread and desserts — choose whole-grain versions instead.
Processed foods with trans fat; limit red meat and butter as saturated-fat sources.
Cured and pickled foods — keep sodium in check for heart and kidney health.