How to Manage Type-2 Diabetes with Diet?

Updated on 2 May 2023

Table of Content

Many individuals may be curious about how to manage Type-2 diabetes without medications. A study reports that healthy lifestyle & diet practices could benefit people with Type-2 diabetes or nullify the worsening of this medical condition.

These following dietary habits will help you control your blood sugar, reach & maintain a healthy weight, and lower your chance of developing diabetic complications without restrictions, regardless of whether you have pre-diabetes or Type-2 diabetes.

What does a diet for diabetes include?

To suit your nutritional demands, you might adhere to a wide range of eating styles and diets. Eating three regular meals per day is the foundation of a diabetic diet. By doing this, you are able to utilise the insulin your body produces or receives from medicines more effectively.

If you have Type-2 diabetes, choose a diet high in nutrient-dense foods to help your body get the fibre, vitamins, and minerals it requires. Consuming a lot of fibre-rich meals helps improve blood sugar control and lets you stay full for longer.

The following are some examples of wholesome meals you really need to eat:

Fruits (Apples, Oranges, Melons, Pears, Berries, Peaches)
Vegetables (Cauliflower, Spinach, Cucumbers, Broccoli)
Whole Grains (Oats, Quinoa, Brown rice)
Nuts (Walnuts, Pistachios, Almonds, Cashews)
Beverages (Vegetable juice, Water, Black coffee, Unsweetened tea)
Healthy Fats (Olive oil, Canola oil, Sesame oil)

Food to avoid if you have Type-2 Diabetes

When you have Type-2 diabetes, there aren't many things that you must completely avoid. Controlling the intake of foods you eat that are rich in saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugar can promote improved blood sugar management and reduce diabetes-related health issues.

There are certain foods that are higher in vitamins and minerals and more nutrient-dense options than others. They also have lower levels of cholesterol, sugar, and fat.

Following are some foods you should avoid if you have Type-2 diabetes:

High-fat meat (Beef, Lamb, Poultry skin, Dark meat, Chicken)
Processed foods (Chips, Processed meat, Microwave popcorn, Convenience meals)
Sweets (Candy, Cookies, Ice cream, Desserts)
Full-fat dairy (Whole Milk, Butter, Cheese, Cream)

Carbohydrate Counting - Effective Way to Manage Diabetes

One method you may utilise to manage diabetes with diet and help to control your blood sugar levels is Carbs counting. You may figure out how many grams of carbohydrates you should consume each day to keep your blood sugar levels healthy while receiving insulin injections and keeping meticulous track.

There are several books and online tools available to help you figure out how many grams of carbs are in regular food servings. Otherwise, it would be recommended to consult a dietitian to understand & get your diet intake chart.

Carbohydrates are present in many foods, including:

Wheat, rice, and other grain-based foods
Potatoes and other starchy vegetables
Dried beans, lentils, and other legumes
Fruit, Fruit Juice, Yogurt

Conclusion

If you have diabetes, CARE Hospitals is a diabetes hospital in Hyderabad and it is imperative that you collaborate with your doctor and a nutritionist to develop a diet plan that works for you. They can assist you in developing a long-term meal planning strategy that meets your health demands and lifestyle.

Regardless of the diet or eating pattern you pick, it is advisable to consume a wide.