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Healthy Eating for Type 2 Diabetes |
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Written by Administrator
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Saturday, 13 December 2008 11:40 |
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Healthy eating and regular physical activity are important in managing your type 2 diabetes because they can lower your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides, as well as help control your weight. It’s important to know that you don’t have to change your entire life to begin eating properly. In fact, simply by reading up on good ways to eat healthy, you will be well on your way to making positive changes to your health.
Know the basics of a good healthy eating plan The best healthy eating plan for type 2 diabetes is one that helps you reach all of your goals and is realistic for you. No two healthy eating plans are the same. However, there are some basics everyone should keep in mind. Choose wisely: - Choose a variety of foods, especially those that contain carbohydrates and fiber, such as whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruit.
- You should eat foods that contain protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, and cheese.
- Saturated fat (animal fat) and trans fats (partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, such as hard margarine and shortenings) should be limited, but some unsaturated fat (oil from vegetables and fish) is healthy.
- Sweets are okay if you eat them in moderation and balance them with healthy choices in other food groups.
Eat often: - Eating three or more small meals a day is better than eating one or two large ones.
- Healthy snacks between meals may help you reduce hunger and prevent low blood sugar.
- By spreading your calories and carbohydrates throughout the day, you can help control your blood sugar.
Get help from a professional Check with your health professional before making any nutrition changes: - Make sure any changes fit into the management goals you and your health professional have set.
- Consider seeing a health specialist such as a registered dietitian for additional help. Many health insurance plans, including Medicare, provide coverage for a dietitian if you have diabetes.
When in doubt, follow the guidelines The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has created a new personalized food pyramid system called MyPyramid. MyPyramid is your guide to better nutrition. It will help you choose the foods in amounts that are right for you.  
Your MyPyramid Plan helps you balance what you eat with physical activity. Physical activity goes hand in hand with healthier eating; when you’re physically fit, you have the strength, flexibility, and endurance needed for your daily activities. MyPyramid walks you through the steps to becoming a healthier you. Adapted from the US Department of Agriculture. |
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 13 December 2008 11:52 )
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