Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to properly produce or use insulin. Because of this, the body does not control blood glucose levels correctly. Contrary to what many people believe, there is no specific diet for Type 2 diabetes. Medical nutrition therapy for Type 2 diabetes involves a balanced diet that focuses on weight control, meal planning and carbohydrate counting.
Calorie Reduction
Most people that have Type 2 diabetes are overweight. According to Medline Plus, you improve your condition with a moderate weight loss of just 10 pounds. Reducing your daily calorie intake, along with added 30 minutes of physical activity into your schedule, helps you lose excess pounds. Your specific calories needs differ based on your age, sex, current weight and activity level, so work with a dietitian to determine your calorie goals.
Meal Planning
Because a diabetic's body cannot control blood sugar on its own, it is important to control blood sugar levels through the diet. Planning your meals helps ensure that you give your body a steady supply of food to keep blood sugar levels even. Make sure to eat breakfast within an hour of waking up and eat healthy snacks and other meals regularly, or approximately every 2 to 3 hours, throughout the day. Try not to let too much time pass in between meals, because this can cause decreases in blood sugar levels, a condition referred to as hypoglycemia. If possible, eat your meals around the same time every day as well.
Focus on vegetables, lean meat, beans, low-fat or non-fat dairy products, fruits and whole grain carbohydrates, such as whole wheat bread, oats and brown rice. Avoid fatty meats, full-fat dairy products and refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and white pasta. You may consume desserts and sweets occasionally, but do so in moderation and pay attention to portion sizes.
Carbohydrate Counting
Your blood glucose levels are affected by carbohydrates. Because of this, it is important to monitor your carbohydrate intake. Control carbohydrate intake with carbohydrate counting, which involves determining the amount of carbohydrates you need every day and then spreading your intake of these carbohydrates throughout the day. Your specific carbohydrate needs vary based on several factors, but the American Diabetes Association recommends starting out at 45 to 60 g of carbohydrates per meal.
Balanced Diet
Type 2 diabetics should follow the same healthy diet plan that is recommended for most people. This diet involves a proper balance of foods from each of the food groups. Medline Plus recommends that Type 2 diabetics consume at least six servings of grains, 3 to 5 cups of vegetables, 2 to 4 cups of fresh fruit, two to three servings of milk products and 5 oz. to 6 oz. of meat and fish per day.
Understanding Servings
MyPyramid.gov defines a serving of grains as a slice of bread or one-half cup of pasta or rice. One cup of fluid milk or yogurt counts as a serving, whereas 1.5 oz. of cheese counts as a milk serving. Diabetics are allowed to enjoy sweets and alcohol occasionally, but portions should be limited.
