Diet For Type 2 Diabetes

Diet for type 2 diabetes is part of the treatment. Along with physical exercise and medications administered by the doctor, it is one of the pillars to achieve successful blood sugar control.

Although type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease, it can be treated with adequate nutrition, adequate physical activity, and medications administered by your doctor. We must not only give importance to drugs.

As we already know, diabetes is a condition that can arise because the body attacks itself and the pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin. It can also manifest itself as a result of inappropriate lifestyles which, over time, alter the production and use of the hormone.

Since diabetes can appear in different ways, it is important to note that  type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It is associated with excessive accumulation of abdominal fat, obesity and physical inactivity.

Diet for type 2 diabetes

It should be borne in mind that a correct diet is one of the fundamental pillars in treating this disease. The goal is not only to lose weight, but also to control blood sugar levels and prevent possible future complications.

In addition, it should not be forgotten either that a person who has developed type 2 diabetes has an alteration in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

First,  the goal is to cut calories in an attempt to regulate weight. In addition to that, it is essential to space the intake of food: the ideal is to make 5 meals a day. In other words, have breakfast, lunch and dinner by adding two snacks between these meals.

Establish schedules

The setting up of schedules adapted to each one is what will make it possible to meet the dietary needs of the day. The goal is to avoid going too long without eating, in order to maintain normal blood sugar levels. This also helps prevent hypoglycemia.

Watch out for carbohydrates

Emphasis should be placed on the type of carbohydrates consumed, knowing that they are essential for blood sugar control since they determine up to 50% of the blood sugar response. Whole grains, legumes and tubers are considered the main sources of carbohydrates in the diet.

They are not only rich in starch, but also contain vitamins, minerals and fiber. Their ideal portion is about a quarter on the plate.

Regarding fruits, current recommendations are to increase consumption by selecting those with a low glycemic index. Whenever possible, it is best to eat them with their skin on, because it is in this part that the fibers are found in particular.

Avoid glucose drops

As we have already mentioned, drops in glucose can occur at any time. It is therefore strongly recommended to always have a piece of fruit or a candy on hand. The patient will thus only have to ingest it when he detects a drop in his blood sugar.

Foods to include in the diet for type 2 diabetes

In addition to the foods we have already mentioned, it is also possible to consume:

• Vegetables: they should occupy half of the plate
• Dairy products: sugar free or with suitable sweeteners, preferably low in fat
• Lean meats,  eggs and cheeses
• Seeds,  dried fruits and oils
• Canned products: no added sugar
• Jams and sweets: with authorized sweeteners

Hydration

One aspect that should not be overlooked in case of type 2 diabetes is hydration. Usually people with diabetes suffer from polyuria (increased amount of urine), but  it is essential to drink water throughout the day.

Drinks without sugars, infusions such as tea, mate or coffee, are also allowed as long as they are sweetened with permitted sweeteners. Occasionally, fruit drinks diluted with water can be consumed.

What should I avoid?

• Alcohol: it has a high glycemic power
• Tobacco: not only is it harmful for everyone, but in people with diabetes, changes in the blood and blood vessels can have long-term consequences
• Too much salt: this, like tobacco, can increase blood pressure

Eating planned is the key with type 2 diabetes

To conclude, a planned diet is one of the tricks of the treatment of type 2 diabetes.  Without it, the control of the metabolism is difficult,  despite the use of hypoglycemic drugs. Most of the time, this is the only therapeutic measure, along with physical exercise.