How much of a 1,200 calorie diabetic diet is protein?

A balanced diabetic meal plan contains 2 to 5 ounces of meat as a protein, according to the American Diabetes Association. Meat does not contain carbohydrates, so it does not affect blood glucose levels or need to be monitored like carbohydrate intake.

Most plant-based proteins contain carbohydrates, such as beans and soy-based products, explains the American Diabetes Association. Beans have approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates in a half-cup serving, and soy-based products have between 5 and 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving. One-quarter of the plate at each meal should contain high-protein foods for people who are on a diabetic diet.