Nutrition tips for type 2 diabetes

By Janet Seiber, RD, CDE

If you have diabetes, the goal of treatment is to keep your blood sugar as close to the normal range as possible. This is to prevent long-term complications of uncontrolled blood sugar such as heart disease and kidney disease.

Consistent Carbohydrate
Eating a consistent amount of carbohydrate at each meal and eating meals about the same time each day can help regulate blood sugar levels. It is recommended to space meals 4 to 5 hours apart. Meal timing and amounts may need to be adjusted with certain diabetes medications or insulin.

Foods that contain carbohydrate turn into glucose. Starches, starchy vegetables, fruit, milk and sweets are carbohydrate sources. It is not advisable to eliminate carbohydrate foods because we need them for energy and as sources of fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Keep carbohydrate portions in check by measuring food portions, reading food labels and learning which foods contain carbohydrate. Exchange lists provide information on carbohydrate foods and serving sizes. Food labels give amounts of total carbohydrate for the serving size listed on the package. One carbohydrate serving or exchange is equal to 15 grams total carbohydrate on the food label.

The amount of carbohydrate to be included with each meal and snack varies with each person. A typical meal size is 4 carbohydrate servings or 60 grams total carbohydrate and a typical snack size is 2 carbohydrate servings or 30 grams total carbohydrate. These amounts are not right for everyone as gender, age, activity level, diabetes medications and personal preferences influence every meal plan.

Prevent Heart Disease
If you have diabetes, you are at an increased risk for developing heart disease. Choose foods that control blood cholesterol levels so the risk of developing heart disease is reduced. This includes choosing lean meats, low-fat dairy products and high fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Weight Management
If you are overweight, even a 5% weight loss can help your body with better blood sugar control. The amount of calories you eat everyday affects your weight. Measuring foods and reading food labels help to control portion sizes and calorie intake. Increase your activity level to burn more calories. Consult with your doctor before starting a strenuous exercise program.

A registered dietitian can assist with creating an individualized meal plan for you. Ask your doctor about a referral to a registered dietitian.

Discuss your nutritional needs or questions with Nutrition and Food Services or utilize our Nutritional Counseling.