(HealthDay News) -- Whether you need to lose weight, gain weight or stay where you are, if you're diabetic, eating the right food can help you manage the disease.

People with diabetes must take extra care to make sure that their diet is balanced with insulin and oral medications, and to exercise to help manage their blood glucose levels, says the American Diabetes Association. Sticking to a meal plan can help you improve your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, and also help keep your weight on track.

This might sound like a lot of work, but your doctor or dietitian can help you create a meal plan that is best for you, one that fits into your schedule and lifestyle. When you make healthy food choices, you will improve your overall health, and you can even help prevent complications such as heart disease, some cancers, and hypertension.