All Natural Diabetes Cookbook

• The American Diabetes Association's own publication, "The All Natural Diabetes Cookbook," won an impressive 2007 title as Gourmand's "Best Health and Nutrition Book in the World." Its approach is to use "naturally delicious fresh foods and whole-food ingredients to create fantastic meals that deliver amazing taste and well-rounded nutrition." This cookbook does not rely on artificial sweeteners.

Betty Crocker's Diabetes Cookbook

• Betty Crocker has been publishing cookbooks on just about every food-related topic since 1950, so it is not surprising that they have a diabetes cookbook. This one is actually written by Dr. Richard M. Bergenstal, Executive Director of the International Diabetes Center. It uses a meal planning system recommended by the ADA and focuses on healthy eating that is appropriate for everyone, not just diabetics. It includes 140 recipes, such as Creamy Vanilla-Caramel Cheesecake. However, be aware that this cookbook does not completely eliminate white sugar. It uses sugar as an ingredient in some recipes, but its goal is healthy, manageable eating.

Joslin Diabetes Center Cookbooks

• The well-respected Joslin Diabetes Center has published several cookbooks. One of the best, but no longer offered on the Joslin website, is "The Joslin Diabetes Gourmet Cookbook" by Frances T. Giedt and Bonnie S. Polin, Ph.D. (who both have diabetes). Another option is their newer cookbook, "The Joslin Diabetes Quick and Easy Cookbook," which includes tasty-sounding recipes such as Stuffed Burgers and Linguini with Easy Clam Sauce.

Cookbooks for Kids with Diabetes

• For kids, dealing with diabetes is tough enough with all of the injections, finger pricks and doctor visits. But having to give up favorite foods can be the worst. A kid-friendly cookbook will help ensure that meals continue to be fun and enjoyable. "Cooking up Fun for Kids with Diabetes" by Patti Geil and Tami Ross is part recipe book, part information (for both kids and parents) and part food-related projects that kids can do. Some recipes are easy enough for kids to cook themselves. Another good choice is "America’s Best Cookbook for Kids with Diabetes" by Colleen Bartley, which includes recipes that are sure to appealing to kids, like Chocolate and Strawberry Waffles, and Peanut Butter Chip Muffins.

Online Recipes and Nutrition Tips

• There are many free resources for diabetic recipes on the worldwide web. For recipes you can trust to be healthful and nutritious, try the National Diabetes Education Program Website. It features a downloadable PDF booklet of recipes and a meal-planning guide in both English and Spanish.