Type 2 DiabetesEating HealthyEating a balanced diet helps you keep your blood sugar level in your target range. It also helps you manage your weight and keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. And it helps you get the nutrients you need. Work with Your DietitianA dietitian (nutrition specialist) will teach you about healthy eating to better manage your diabetes. He or she can help you make food choices that fit your lifestyle and your needs. If someone often shops and cooks for you, this person should come with you to your appointments. Your Food DiaryTo help your dietitian learn about your eating habits, keep a food diary. This diary should list all that you eat and drink for 3 or more days. You and your dietitian can use the diary to create a meal plan. This is a plan for the types and amounts of food to eat for each meal and snack. Keeping a diary helps ensure that your meal plan fits your needs and tastes. How to Keep Your Food DiaryFollow these guidelines:
Learning to Eat HealthyOne step toward healthier eating is learning how different foods affect your blood sugar and your overall health. Learn About CarbohydratesYou need to eat carbohydrates (carbs) for energy, vitamins, and fiber. But carbs do raise blood sugar more than other foods. To manage your blood sugar, control the amount of carbs you eat at each meal or snack. Carbs are:
Eat Less FatHigh-fat foods are high-calorie, so eating less fat helps you manage your weight. This can help control both your blood sugar and your blood pressure. Eating less fat may also help lower cholesterol. All these things help keep your blood vessels and your heart healthy. Limit AlcoholYour healthcare provider may say that it's safe for you to drink a small amount of alcohol. If you drink, be aware that:
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Checking Your Blood Sugar | Eating Healthy |