If you are prediabetic – which means you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes – or if you have already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your nutrition and lifestyle are incredibly important to your overall health and well-being. Eating a healthy diet of nutritious foods that are low in refined carbohydrates and sugar can help you prevent developing type 2 diabetes complications and effectively reduce symptoms.
Managing your nutrition and increasing your physical activity are integral to your health when you have type 2 diabetes. The best thing you can do is to have a medical professional assist you in establishing good habits.
Nutritional Guidelines for Type 2 Diabetes
Let’s go over some important food guidelines to follow if you or someone you love has type 2 diabetes or prediabetes:
Eat Plenty of Vegetables
With a high content of fiber and complex carbohydrates, vegetables are always a good choice. The best vegetables to eat are onions, peppers, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, and squash.
Incorporate Fruit into Your Regular Diet
Instead of choosing sugary foods, go for fruits instead. The sugar found in fruits is natural, so fruit will satisfy your craving naturally and healthfully.
Fruits are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Add raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, apples, apricots, and pears to your diet for optimum nutrition – doesn’t that sound delicious? Treating yourself to fruits you enjoy can help you limit your artificial sugar intake and ensure you consume good sugars.
Consume Beans and Legumes for Healthy Protein
Type 2 diabetes nutrition involves a diet that is rich in fiber and protein – and beans and lentils are excellent sources of both of those. Fiber prevents the overabsorption of carbohydrates, which is excellent for controlling type 2 diabetes. Add white beans, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas to your regular menu.
Eat Whole Grains
There are simple, refined carbohydrates that are not very healthy for diabetics, and then there are complex carbohydrates – such as whole grains – which are a great choice for diabetics. Whole grains break down slowly in your digestive tract and leave you feeling full for a longer time, which prevents hunger pangs, cravings, and overeating. With nutrition that is rich in whole grains, you will have an easier time managing your blood sugar levels.
Eat Fresh, Natural Foods
Understanding the nutrition labels on packaged foods can be a challenge. Many foods have high salt content, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives which can lead to other health concerns. The best food choices for those with type 2 diabetes include freshly made food with real ingredients rather than lots of additives.
Exercise Regularly
Everyone should get enough exercise every day, but those who have type 2 diabetes will especially benefit from regular exercise. Even if you eat a very healthy diet, the benefits of exercise can help you tremendously.
Exercise gets your blood pumping, lowers a lot of health risks associated with type 2 diabetes, and can help you manage your weight more effectively. If you have type 2 diabetes, be sure to exercise regularly so you can reap the benefits and keep unwanted symptoms at bay.
Type 2 Diabetes Nutrition in Raleigh
Managing type 2 diabetes can be a challenge. Fortunately, you don’t have to try managing your health all by yourself when the experts at Carrus Health are here to help. If you are prediabetic or have type 2 diabetes, we can help you manage your nutrition and health so you can live a symptom-free lifestyle.
To schedule a consultation, contact our friendly staff at Carrus Health today by calling us at (903) 870-2600 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to being your healthcare partner for a lifetime of wellness!
