Type 2 diabetes, also categorized as adult-onset diabetes, is a disease in which your body cannot produce enough insulin, the hormone that stabilizes glucose levels in your bloodstream, or else your body doesn't respond to insulin properly. This type of diabetes might appear at any point in your lifetime. Treatment characteristically features medicines and eating a well-balanced diet. A diet that regulates your blood glucose levels and maintains overall health is essential.
Low Glycemic Carbohydrates
According to the American Diabetes Association, low glycemic carbohydrates, such as broccoli, apples, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, oat bran and berries, can help control blood glucose levels. These do not raise blood sugar levels the way high glycemic carbs, such as white rice, white bread and baked desserts do. Low glycemic carbs keep type 2 diabetes symptoms at bay.
Protein
Protein-rich foods take longer to digest than carbs, so they do not cause insulin spikes. A type 2 diabetes diet should contain lean protein sources such as fish, turkey, eggs and skinless chicken breast, and plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils, which contain little saturated fat, unlike red and processed meats. Eat small portions of protein throughout the day to keep blood sugar levels stable and to remain satiated.
Black Tea
A 2009 study in the "Journal of Food Science," published on the Science Daily website, reports that black tea might benefit diabetes patients because its polysaccharide levels might hinder the absorption of glucose. The study revealed that black tea contained more polysaccharides than other teas, including green and oolong tea.
Nonstarchy Vegetables
Nonstarchy vegetables are among the few foods type 2 diabetic patients can eat at will. Like most plant foods, they are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, phytochemicals and antioxidants, but they have few calories and no fat. Fresh veggies are best because they do not have additives such as sodium or sugar. Cucumber, artichokes, kale and carrots are some of the best no-starch vegetables for a diabetes diet.
