Is there such a thing as the type 2 diabetes diets? It seems there is actually no special diets for diabetes type 2 sufferers. Actually the specialised diets for diabetes are what everyone should be following in the first place to maintain good health.
The advice by the professional seems to be that everyone – diabetics and non diabetics alike should always eat a healthy, well balanced diet that is low in fat, sugar, and salt. This diabetic diet should include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables – the more brightly coloured they are the better.
The type 2 diabetes diet secrets are that you should follow:
Choose high fibre complex carbohydrate foods with a low glycaemic index [the lower the GI the better]
- Foods that have a low glycaemic index (GI) take a longer time to convert carbohydrates into glucose and as a result release sugar more slowly into the bloodstream. This cause blood sugar levels to be more stable and prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Try to eat healthy snacks between meals as too many high GI foods cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly.
Spread your meals even throughout the day [Have regular meals and snacks at regular intervals]
- Eat breakfast; it is the most important meal of the day. A bowl of wholegrain cereal or a toasted bagel with peanut butter and a glass of juice will boosts your energy level and set you up for the day ahead.
- Try to eat healthy snacks between meals, such as nuts, water melon, low fat yoghurts and fruits.
- Never ever skip a meal.
Try as much as possible to reduce your intake of fats [unhealthy fats]
- Reduce your consumption of red meats. If you have to eat meat make sure it is lean meat. It is better to grill or bake meat instead of frying.
- Where possible eat more lentils, beans and other peas as a healthy alternative to meat. They are high in protein and therefore a good substitute.
- Always choose low-fat alternative in dairy products – such as semi-skimmed milk instead of full fat and low-fat yoghurts instead of full fat yoghurts.
- Avoid products that contain hydrogenated fats. These fats extend shelf life but are very damaging to your health.
- Eat less cakes and biscuits – if you must try and plan for the ocational treat.
Drink lots of fluids to keep yourself well hydrated
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go and drink a little at a time.
- Avoid drinking alcohol if you can. If not please account for the calories in alcohol plus the sugar content.
- Dont wait until you are thirsty – by the time you feel thirsty it’s too late.
