Non-insulin-dependent diabetes, commonly referred to as type 2 diabetes, is a condition in which the body does not respond well to insulin, a hormone that signals liver, muscle and fat cells to pull glucose out of the blood. As a result, people with type 2 diabetes have chronically high blood glucose levels. People with non-insulin-dependent diabetes can help control their blood glucose levels through changes in their diet.
Weight Loss
One way in which diet can affect type 2 diabetes is through the maintenance of a healthy weight. Many diabetics are overweight, and by losing some of this excess weight, they can lower their blood glucose levels, the Federal Citizen Information Center explains. Consequently, one of the main aspects of a diabetes diet is calorie restriction, which comes in the form of choosing healthy foods and limiting portion sizes.
Recommended Foods
People who have type 2 diabetes should try to consume primarily healthy carbohydrates, the Mayo Clinic explains. "Healthy" carbs are those that come from whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Fiber is also an important part of the diet, as it can help lower blood glucose levels. The Mayo Clinic also recommends that people with type 2 diabetes consume at least two servings of fish per week.
Foods to Avoid
Diabetics should avoid some foods. Sugary foods can result in a rapid spike in blood glucose. Foods that contain saturated and trans fats should also be avoided, as these foods can increase a person's risk for heart disease, which is one of the major complications of type 2 diabetes. Cholesterol should be limited to 200 mg per day maximum, and diabetics should also aim to consume less than 2,000 mg of sodium per day.
Exchange Systems
One way in which people with type 2 diabetes can plan out a healthy diet is to use an "exchange" system, which breaks all foods down into different categories, such as starches, fruits, vegetables, fats and meats. Patients are allotted a certain number of servings from each of these food groups based on how many calories they are consuming. For example, a person eating a 1,600- to 2,000-calorie diet can have eight starches, four vegetables, three fruits, two milks, 4 to 6 oz. of meat and up to four fats, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders explains.
Limitations
Although people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes can help control their blood glucose levels with a healthy diet, diet alone is usually not sufficient to keep this chronic disease in check. Patients should work with their doctor to see if they need to take any oral medications that can help keep blood glucose levels low. Regular blood glucose testing is needed to ensure that blood glucose levels do not become dangerously high.
