Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce sufficient insulin to manage blood glucose levels, or when the cells of the body cannot utilize the insulin produced by the pancreas, according to the American Diabetes Association. Insulin is a chemical that aids in the conversion of glucose into energy. Diet plays an important part of managing type 2 diabetes.
Diet should not replace conventional medical treatment for diabetes. Check with your doctor before making dietary changes.
Step 1
Add fresh, raw vegetables to your diet. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," raw vegetables provide nutrients such as vitamin C, manganese, copper and vitamin A that are necessary for the health of diabetics. Vegetables also provide dietary fiber that may aid in blood glucose and cholesterol control.
Step 2
Use beans in casseroles and soups instead of meats. Beans are cholesterol-free sources of protein and dietary fiber, according to the Drs. Balch. Unlike meats, they are also free of saturated fats that can elevate blood cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease. High cholesterol is a common complication of diabetes.
Step 3
Limit intake of starchy foods such as potatoes, rice and corn. Starch is a type of carbohydrate that may elevate blood sugar levels, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Step 4
Use whole-grain breads and pastas instead of white flour products, advise Drs. Balch. Whole-grain products have a lower impact on glucose levels than white breads, pastas, bagels and pastries. They are also rich sources of B vitamins, which are necessary for nervous system function and the production of red blood cells.
Step 5
Use fish in entrees and side dishes instead of red meat. According to the American Diabetes Association, fish such as salmon and tuna are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce low-density lipoproteins -- the "bad" components of cholesterol that contribute to clogged arteries.
Step 6
Eats nuts such as walnuts, pistachios and macadamias, as snacks. These foods provide unsaturated fats, which are necessary for proper function of the body's organs. They also contain dietary fiber, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Tips and Warnings
- Use olive oil when necessary to fry vegetables, fish and other foods. Unlike margarine and shortening, olive oil contains unsaturated fats.
- Avoid eating nuts covered with salt or sugar. Sodium may contribute to heart disease, while sugar may elevate blood glucose levels.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Superfoods
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Basics -- Type 2
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
