Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes sugar, according to MayoClinic.com. People with Type 2 diabetes are either resistant to the affects of insulin or do not make enough. Insulin is the hormone responsible for getting sugar from the bloodstream into the cell. In addition to regular exercise and medication, a healthy diet is part of the treatment for Type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet for Type 2 diabetics includes a variety of foods from all of the food groups.
Starches
Starches make up the bulk of the diet for Type 2 diabetes, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. Starches are also a major source of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates in food have the greatest affect on blood sugars. In order to control blood sugar, people with Type 2 diabetes need to control the amount of starches they consume each day. It is also important people with Type 2 diabetes eat more whole-grain starches. The fiber in whole-grains helps to control blood sugar by slowing down digestion. Healthy whole-grain starches include whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole grain pasta, oats, whole grain cereal and whole grain crackers. Other healthy starch choices include potatoes, peas, corn, pretzels and rice cakes.
Vegetables
People with high intakes of vegetables can reduce their risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and some cancers. Vegetables should be eaten everyday as part of a healthy diet plan for people with Type 2 diabetes. Vegetables are low in calorie and high in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Eating low-calorie vegetables with each meal can help control hunger and prevent overeating. Vegetable choices include leafy greens, cucumbers, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans and carrots.
Fruits
People with fruit-rich diets also have lower rates of chronic diseases, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Fruits are a source of carbohydrate and Type 2 diabetics need to control their intake. It is also better for people with diabetes to choose the whole fruit over the juice to increase fiber intake for hunger and blood sugar control. Fruit choices for Type 2 diabetes include apples, oranges, bananas, unsweetened canned fruit, unsweetened dried fruit, berries and melons.
Milk and Yogurt
Milk and yogurt provides the Type 2 diabetic with protein, calcium and carbohydrates. To limit risk of heart disease, low-fat and nonfat versions are recommended. Saturated fat found in animal products can lead to elevated blood cholesterol levels. People with Type 2 diabetes can have skim milk, 1 percent fat milk, nonfat plain yogurt and nonfat sugar free fruit flavored yogurt.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Some meats are also a source of saturated fat. Lean meat choices for Type 2 diabetes include poultry without the skin, ground round, beef tenderloin, pork chop, fish, shellfish and tuna packed in water. Other meat and meat substitutes choices include low-fat cheese, low-fat hot dogs, lean luncheon meats, egg whites, egg substitutes and tofu.
