Best Diet To Follow For Type 2 Diabetes

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body struggles to use the insulin that it produces. This can cause blood sugar levels to rise, leading to serious health complications. Without the proper diet and lifestyle changes, type 2 diabetes can cause serious health issues such as blindness, heart disease, kidney failure, and even death. Fortunately, there are several dietary changes that can help keep diabetes in check.

Limiting Refined Carbs

One of the most important dietary changes to make if you have type 2 diabetes is to limit your intake of refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and sugary treats, can cause your blood sugar levels to spike. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and other whole grains. Complex carbohydrates are digested slower, helping to keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Eating Low-Glycemic Foods

Another dietary change to make if you have type 2 diabetes is to opt for low-glycemic foods. Glycemic index measures how quickly a food will raise your blood sugar levels, with high-glycemic foods causing blood sugar levels to spike quickly. Low-glycemic foods, such as most fruits and vegetables, help to keep your blood sugar levels stable. It is also important to limit your intake of high-glycemic foods, such as white bread, pasta, and potatoes.

Including Healthy Fats

In addition to limiting your intake of refined carbs and high-glycemic foods, it is important to include healthy fats in your diet if you have type 2 diabetes. Healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts, can help to make you feel fuller for longer, helping to prevent overeating. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish such as salmon, can also help to reduce inflammation, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Monitoring Your Carb Intake

It is also important to monitor your carb intake if you have type 2 diabetes. Eating too many carbs can cause your blood sugar levels to spike, so it is important to limit your intake to no more than 50g of carbs per meal. It is also important to spread your carb intake throughout the day, rather than eating all of your carbs at once.

Eating Regularly

Finally, it is important to eat regularly if you have type 2 diabetes. Skipping meals can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and other health issues. Aim to eat at least three meals a day, and snack in between meals if necessary. Eating regular meals and snacks can help to keep your blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.