Diet for a Type 2 Diabetes Patient
If you have Type 2 diabetes, a healthy diet is essential. The most important things are maintaining a healthy weight and keeping blood sugar levels under control. Your diet should emphasize fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Monitor your total calories and get regular exercise.
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The Facts
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The good news for Type 2 diabetics is that the condition can often be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Consistently choosing healthy foods is the first step. Eat small, frequent meals including fresh, wholesome foods such as raw vegetables, fresh fruits and whole grains. Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil, over saturated fats.
Weight Control
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Most people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight, so weight control is one of the most important aspects of a Type 2 diabetes diet. Moderate weight loss can help control or slow the progression of the disease. The American Diabetes Association recommends a gradual weight loss of one to two pounds per week. Drastic diets may help you lose weight more quickly, but you won't be able to keep it off. Make small changes in your eating habits that you can live with. Begin by watching portion sizes.
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Healthy Choices
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Your diet should mostly consist of unprocessed foods. Non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli and green beans, are good choices, because they are full of nutrients and fiber. For breads, read nutrition labels and choose whole-grain loaves whenever possible. Whole grains release sugars into the bloodstream more slowly than processed grains. That slow glucose release helps keep blood sugar levels even. Choose fish, poultry and lean cuts of beef.
Misconceptions
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You may think you must avoid sweets altogether. That's no longer the case. Although you don't want a diet full of junk food, sweets aren't a complete taboo. Sweets can raise your blood glucose level, but all carbohydrates can do this. As a general rule, diabetics can have three to four servings of carbohydrates each day. To keep blood glucose under control, sweets can occasionally be substituted for other carbohydrate-containing food, such as cereal or bread.
Staying Committed
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Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to very serious consequences. It's important to learn healthier eating habits. Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietician, who can help you lose weight, control overeating and make better food choices. Staying committed to a healthy eating plan is the best way to keep your blood glucose under control.
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