Dieting for Diabetes

Have you recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes? Or have you had it for awhile and struggle to maintain normal blood sugar levels?

There are three important factors that can help reduce blood sugar and ultimately prevent side effects:

1- Lose weight, if needed. Extra weight (fat) increases inflammation. Maintaining a normal weight may help.

2- Focus on physical activity. Movement reduces blood sugar and burns calories. There’s no such thing as too little. A fifteen minute walk after lunch and dinner will do wonders to lower blood sugar.
3- Eat fewer carbohydrates. Carbs raise blood sugar. Think about your diet. Are you eating too much rice, bread, pasta, or sweets? Measure your portions.

Test your blood sugar two hours after you eat. If it’s more than 180 mg/dl, try eating fewer carbohydrates next time. If you eat fewer carbs at meals, you will be eating fewer calories. Eating fewer calories will help you lose weight. It’s a win-win for your weight and your blood sugar.  If you have questions about diabetes or losing weight, see a registered dietitian/nutritionist. We are the nutrition experts.