A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes doesn't preclude a diet of enjoyable, tasty foods. In fact, a diabetic diet is packed with the healthiest choices for managing the disease itself, maintaining a healthy weight, and looking and feeling good in general. People with type 2 diabetes can choose from a vast array of nutritious foods, all of which can be combined into delicious meals and snacks.
Glycemic Index and Foods
The glycemic index is a medical term for how rapidly certain foods can cause blood sugar to rise, according to the Mayo Clinic. With type 2 diabetes, it is essential to avoid foods with a high glycemic index, such as high-sugar candy bars, sugary soft drinks and certain starches. Foods with a low glycemic index tend to be high in fiber and loaded with other essential nutrients to keep your body and brain at optimal health.
Healthy Carbohydrate Sources
Fruits, whole grains and vegetables are integral sources of complex carbohydrates. Calories that provide your body with the energy it needs come from complex carbohydrate sources, so it is vital to incorporate plenty of these types of foods into a type 2 diabetic diet. Raw broccoli, carrots, unsweetened granola, whole grain bread and high-fiber cereals are all examples of foods that you can eat if you have type 2 diabetes. These foods tend to be low in fat and calories, so you have the extra advantage of keeping your waistline where you want it, and even promoting healthy weight loss.
Meats and Meal Staples
In a diabetic diet -- as in any diet -- it is essential to eat healthy sources of protein, carbohydrates and nutrients. Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes doesn't mean you can't eat foods such as steak and pasta; in fact, smaller portions of lean red meat, fish, and chicken make excellent foods that provide protein. Portion sizes of meats, reports the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, should be 4 to 6 oz. for women and 5 to 7 oz. for men. Whole wheat pasta is another example of a diabetic-friendly food -- one that can be just as delicious as processed pasta when prepared properly. Rice is another healthy eating choice for type 2 diabetes, and can be topped with healthy vegetables and lean meats or beans for a tasty, nourishing diabetic meal.
Snacks
Bypassing vending-machine candy bars and bags of potato chips for snacks is vital to eating for type 2 diabetes. However, there are plenty of finger-foods that are not only diabetic-friendly, but also friendly to the taste buds and filled with nutrients and fiber. Healthy snacks include granola bars, trail mix with no chocolate or chocolate substitutes, fresh fruit such as bananas and apples, and dry cereal. Snacking throughout the day is instrumental in keeping your metabolism burning, and this is crucial for eating for diabetes as well as weight loss.
Type 2 Diabetes Meal Planning
Talk to your physician or dietitian for ideas for healthy meals geared toward type 2 diabetes. She will take into account your lifestyle as well as personal and family medical history to help you craft a unique meal plan to keep you healthy and to satisfy your personal tastes. Also, see the Resources section below for a wide variety of healthy recipes to keep your diabetic meal planning interesting as well as nourishing.
