People with type 2 diabetes either do not make enough or cannot properly use insulin. Sugar, or glucose, cannot get from the bloodstream into the cell without insulin. The glucose in the bloodstream comes from food; therefore, diet plays an important role in the management of diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes do not need to eat special food, but they should follow a healthy diet that includes a variety of tasty foods from all food groups.
Starches
Carbohydrates in food cause blood sugars to rise. Starches are a major source of carbohydrates in the diet. People with type 2 diabetes can eat a variety of foods from the starch group, although it is recommended that they choose whole-grain starches for their fiber content. Fiber in food helps slow digestion and prevent spikes in blood sugar. Tasty starch choices include granola, pancakes, waffles, tortillas, crackers and pretzels made with whole grains, as well as brown rice, air-popped popcorn, peas, potatoes and graham crackers.
Fruits
Fruits also contain carbohydrates. People with type 2 diabetes should eat whole fruits instead of drinking juice to ingest the fiber. Some tasty fruits type 2 diabetics can eat include apples, oranges, bananas, watermelon, strawberries, cherries, grapes, raisins, apricots, cantaloupe, blueberries and raspberries, as well as unsweetened canned fruit.
Milk
Milk provides type 2 diabetics with protein, calcium and carbohydrates. People with type 2 diabetes should choose low-fat and fat-free milk products to limit saturated fat intake. People with type 2 diabetes are at a greater risk of heart disease, and too much saturated fat in the diet increases blood cholesterol levels, a risk factor for heart disease. Tasty milk choices include skim milk, plain nonfat yogurt and nonfat sugar-free flavored yogurts.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Meat and meat substitutes are a good source of protein. Lean meat choices are preferred because of their lower fat and calorie content. Tasty lean meat choices for type 2 diabetes include ground round beef, sirloin beef, fish, low-fat hot dogs, 95 percent fat free luncheon meats, Canadian bacon, pork chops, poultry without the skin, shellfish and canned tuna packed in water. Low-fat cheese and cottage cheese, egg substitutes and egg whites are also good protein sources for people with type 2 diabetes.
Vegetables
Vegetables are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Dark green- and orange-colored vegetables provide the most nutrients and should be eaten most often, according to the National Diabetes Education Program. Tasty vegetable choices include broccoli, spinach, kale, mustard greens, carrots, cauliflower, cabbage, leafy greens, peppers, brussels sprouts, green beans, asparagus, mushrooms, onions and eggplant.
Sweets and Desserts
People with type 2 diabetes can eat sweets and desserts, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Sweets and desserts should be eaten with a meal in small portions and should replace other carbohydrate foods, such as starch, milk or fruit. Tasty sweets and desserts for type 2 diabetics include sugar-free hot chocolate, unfrosted brownies and cake, gingersnap or chocolate chip cookies, sugar-free ice cream, fun-size candy bars and plain doughnuts.
