How To Control Type 2 Diabetes with Diet

It is important for people with type 2 diabetes to follow a carefully recommended diet plan. The U.S. National Library of Medicine encourages type 2 diabetics to follow the American Diabetes Association's recommendations to lose weight while controlling diabetes.

Opt for whole-grain foods, such as whole-wheat bread and brown rice. Vegetables are also an important part of the diabetic diet, with three to five servings required each day plus two to four servings of fruit. Two to three servings of milk and meat or fish should also be eaten each day.

Controlling Glucose Levels

Eating fewer calories is important, as well as eating an even amount of carbohydrates, such as 30 to 45 grams per meal. Almonds, walnuts, peanut butter or almond butter contain healthy monosaturated fats that are also important in controlling your blood sugar level.

Some foods, such as oatmeal and other whole grains, do not cause spikes in your blood glucose. These grains are loaded with soluble fiber that prevents the carbohydrates in the oatmeal from digesting too quickly. When you add protein to the oatmeal, it is even better at helping to control type 2 diabetes. You can eat the type of nuts that you like best. Choose almonds pecans or walnuts that also add fat to this meal. The fat in nuts is a healthy omega-3 fat that is heart-healthy.

Other Healthy Suggestions

Beans are another great food for anyone – especially diabetics. Beans also raise your glucose blood level slowly, unlike refined foods. They contain protein, carbohydrates and very little fat. You can choose kidney, black, navy, pinto, garbanzo or soybeans that provide an excellent source of protein.

Wild salmon, especially Alaskan salmon or Pacific salmon, are very good additions to your diet because of the omega-3 oils they contain. These fish have a healthy balance of fat and protein that helps to keep blood sugar levels within the normal range.

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