Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes glucose. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, or cells become insulin-resistant. Consequently, the body is unable to utilize glucose for energy. Left untreated, diabetes can result in life-threatening complications. While there is no cure for the disease, type 2 diabetes is largely treatable with diet modifications.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a component of food that raises blood glucose. There are three types of carbohydrates: starches, sugars and fiber. Starchy foods include potatoes, squash, corn, beans, lentils, bread, crackers and pasta. Sugars may be naturally occurring in milk or fruit or added to foods like juice or cookies. Fiber is found in plant foods. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes have a high fiber content. It is important to monitor carbohydrate intake to maintain stable glucose levels.
Carbohydrate Counting
According to the American Diabetes Association, a person with diabetes should eat between 45 and 60 g of carbohydrate daily. Divide carbohydrate intake throughout the day. Eat approximately 15 g carbohydrates per meal and 5 to 10 g for a snack. Read nutrition labels to determine how many carbohydrates are in a food item. Be sure to read both the serving size and amount of carbohydrate per serving to attain the exact amount of carbohydrates. For example, one serving of milk is one cup and contains 12 carbohydrates. Two cups would contain 24 carbohydrates. Packages foods like chips, cookies and soda often contain more than one serving per container.
Diabetic Exchanges
Some people with diabetes choose to follow the diabetic exchange method to monitor carbohydrate intake. The exchange system categorizes foods into categories of starches, fruits, meats, sweets, fats and free foods. Each food group breaks down specific foods into servings sizes that are equal to the same amount of calories and carbohydrates. For example, one fruit exchange is equal to 15 grams of carbohydrates. Meat contains no carbohydrates. Milk has 12 g of carbohydrate per exchange and nonstarchy vegetables contain 5 g of carbohydrate per exchange. Everyone's body reacts differently to certain foods. Exchange allotment varies between individuals based on weight and height and other factors.
Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Carbohydrates are a major part of a diabetic diet. However, it is important to incorporate a variety of healthy foods into everyday life. Choose lean foods like poultry, fish, beans or legumes when eating protein. Oils such as olive, canola or vegetable are high in unsaturated fats, which help to reduce the risk of heart disease, according to the American Diabetes Association. Choose whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal whenever possible. Be aware of portion sizes. Divide a plate into quarters when eating. Half the plate should be filled with nonstarchy vegetables like leafy greens, peppers, tomatoes, and green beans. One quarter should contain around 4 oz of protein and the other quarter with a starch of choice.
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