subject: Basic Guide to Type 2 Diabetes Diet [print this page] Basic Guide to Type 2 Diabetes Diet Basic Guide to Type 2 Diabetes Diet
The most common form of diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes is actually a chronic disease which is marked by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood and can be controlled with a proper diet. Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body's fat, liver and muscle cells do not respond properly to insulin (insulin resistance), which is needed to move glucose into cells for storage and energy consumption. As a result, high levels of glucose build up in the blood (hyperglycemia), which triggers the pancreas to produce more insulin. However, the pancreas cannot match anymore such demand, so a problem occurs.
A Type 2 diabetes diet is important since too much fat in the body can cause insulin resistance. In fact, those who are overweight are usually the ones who acquire Type 2 diabetes, since there is too much fat that does not respond properly to insulin. This does not mean however that the thin and elderly cannot acquire Type 2 diabetes, because they still can. Type 2 diabetes can also be hereditary, a risk that is increased when the individual has low activity level and poor diet. What then should one eat and not eat when diagnosed with this kind of diabetes?
Yes: Carbohydrates and Fiber
Since carbohydrates provide energy through glucose, it is a major part of this diet. Complex carbohydrates such as those found in whole grains are considered healthier since the body slowly digests them. As a result, there is a stable source of energy. It is important however to take note of the amount intake.
Lessen: Fat
You have to lessen your intake of fat, especially saturated fat, to lower down the risk of developing heart disease. So avoid cheese, beef, milk, and baked items that are high in saturated fat. When buying meat, choose the lean meats such as fish and poultry. Do not fry them; rather, grill, roast, or steam them. If you want to eat dairy products, you also have to choose those that are low in fat.
These are basically the simple guidelines you need to follow in a type 2 diabetes diet to lessen further risks such as heart diseases.
