Principles of a Type 2 Diabetes Diet

Creating a Type 2 diabetes diet and health plan is a common process for most people who discover that they are diabetic. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the metabolic syndrome, and those seeking diabetes treatment information are encouraged quickly to set up a long-term treatment plan that focuses on proper diet and health. By maintaining a diet that emphasizes maintenance of blood sugar, Type 2 diabetics are often able to keep their bodies and spirits in prime condition and avoid long-term effects of the syndrome.

Why is a Diabetic Diet Necessary?
When a person is diagnosed with diabetes, there is one of two key things taking place within her body. In some cases, a diabetic's body cells are refusing insulin, a hormone that transfers sugar from blood into cells. In other cases, her body does not produce enough insulin for cells to process that sugar and function normally. In both instances, cells are not receiving enough fuel and sugar instead turns into glucose; the level of sugars in the blood and the cells quickly get out of whack and leave a person's body scrambling to recover.

Not only does a diabetic quickly feel fatigue in the short term, the body's inability to function leads to longer-term complications, including problems in the eyes, heart, nerves and kidney. A diabetic diet, then, focuses on overcoming those issues and allowing the body to regain a sense of proper order.

What Comprises a Diabetic Diet?
A diabetic diet is built upon three fundamental components: carbohydrates, proteins and fat. When included in proper portions, these three elements best balance out the diabetic's sugar levels.

• Carbohydrates: Carbs are the components in a diet that most quickly break down within the body and become sugar. As a result, they have the fastest impact on a person's glucose levels. This can be helpful for fueling the body - as long as they do not inadvertently flood the bloodstream with too much sugar. Diabetics are encouraged to consume complex carbohydrates, which will break down slightly more slowly, and aim to make carbohydrates 45-65 percent of a daily diet. Great examples of diabetic-friendly complex carbs include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy.
• Proteins: About 15-20 percent of your daily intake should come from proteins, and it is important to try to keep those proteins as low-fat as possible. Look for lean cuts of beef or poultry and try to eat fish at least twice a week in order to reap the heart-healthy benefits.
• Fats: There are good fats and bad fats, and a diabetic diet encourages the former. About 20-35 percent of your daily caloric intake should come from fats, but you want to look for healthy fat sources, such as canola oil, olive oil, nuts and seeds. Try to keep your use of butter, margarine and shortening minimal.

Set a Regular Schedule
Following the components of a diabetic diet will help you regular your blood sugar levels, but it is important to allow your body to adapt to the diet and a meal schedule. When possible, eat your meals at the same time each day and be sure that you do not vary the amount of carbohydrates you ingest.