Ask the average person what a diabetic can or can't eat and they'll probably say "no sugar". In fact, this isn't the case and there's no 'special' diet for sufferers to adhere to, as long as they're managing their condition properly.

"Many people with diabetes are overweight so we encourage them to lose weight, through healthy diet and exercise," explains Emma Burn, care advisor for Diabetes UK. "Sufferers are advised to reduce their intake of sugar and sugary foods and saturated fats and cut down their intake of salt because of the increased risk of high blood pressure. But it's a myth that diabetics can't eat sugar. Their diet should include lots of fruit and vegetables - we recommend five portions a day - and plenty of starchy foods. But on special occasions there's no reason why they can't indulge in whatever they want."

The organisation also discourages people from buying diabetic versions of sugar-containing foods, such as chocolates and biscuits, which it says 'offer no special benefit, still raise blood glucose levels, are usually more expensive and can also have a laxative effect'.

If you're catering for a diabetic you should speak to him or her first to establish whether they have any special dietary requests and to find out how flexible they can be with what they eat. As a general guide, Diabetes UK recommends always including plenty of carbohydrates in a meal, such as potatoes, rice, bread, pasta or cereals, to provide a gradual and prolonged release of sugar into the blood.

It's a good idea to offer some nibbles if you're not planning to eat straightaway and to let your diabetic guests know if there will be a long wait before the food is served. Many diabetics will also appreciate a sugar-free drink, such as diet fizzy drinks or sugar-free cordial or squash. Despite what many people think, diabetics can drink alcohol, but should avoid doing so on an empty stomach. And again, as with all of us, they should only drink in moderation.

Diabetic-friendly recipes

Here are some healthy and delicious recipes that most diabetics will enjoy, but remember to check with individuals first.

Breakfast and snacks

This healthy muesli is simple to make and will keep for a week or two in an airtight container. The power shake is great for breakfast in a hurry - you can substitute skimmed milk for the fruit juice if you prefer.

Swiss muesli

Power shake

Nibbles and snacks

Homemade dips are so much tastier and fresher than the readymade variety - and are generally much healthier too. Serve the baba ganoush (aubergine dip) with some griddled wholemeal pitta breads for a satisfying snack or as a nibble with drinks. Serve it with some juicy, plump olives, a plate of dolmades and a bowl of tzatziki (you can use low-fat yoghurt if you want a lower-fat version) and you've got a healthy mezze - the perfect start to a dinner party or summer lunch. The butter bean bruschetta is quick and easy to make and the topping also be served as a dip with crudités.

Baba ganoush

Dolmates with tzatziki

Butter bean bruschetta

Something substantial

These falafel burgers with hummus are a great source of carbohydrates - serve them with the Moroccan salad for a bit of zing and a great contrast in textures. The lemon pepper chicken is very simple to cook and would be ideal for a midweek supper, while the pumpkin gnocchi takes a little longer to prepare but is well worth the effort. For something a bit special, cook the gremolata salmon - it's perfect served with a bowl of steaming new potatoes and a green salad in summer, or with mashed potatoes and steamed green vegetables in winter.

Falafel burgers with hummus

Moroccan carrot and orange salad

Glazed lemon pepper chicken

Pumpkin gnocchi

Gremolata grilled salmon

Sweets and baking

This banana and pecan bread and the carrot and pineapple muffins both contain wholemeal flour. They have a high fibre content but still taste delicious. The summer pudding can be served with low-fat yoghurt as a healthier alternative - otherwise it tastes great with crème fraiche or thick double cream.

Banana and pecan loaf

Carrot and pineapple muffins

Summer pudding

Chocolate profiteroles

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