Type 2 diabetes is a condition that develops slowly. It is more common than type 1 diabetes, representing about 75% of all cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes often occurs later in life, although there are cases of the disease found among children (particularly obese) and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is strongly associated with obesity. People with type 2 diabetes should, firstly, make changes in the diet and lifestyle for the disease to be controlled. For the diabetic patients, an effective management of carbohydrates, fibers and fat becomes essential.
Carbohydrates in the diet of people who have type 2 diabetes
Carbohydrates are one of the most important categories of food (the other being protein and fat) in the diet of people with type 2 diabetes. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body in the form of glucose. Glucose is the main energy source for all body cells.
Carbohydrates have an immediate effect on blood sugar levels because they are broken down during digestion. Carbohydrates are found mainly in the following food groups:
– Milk and yogurt
– bread, cereal, rice and pasta
– starch rich vegetables such as potatoes, corn and beans.
Fibers and nutrition for diabetes patients
Fibers are the indigestible part of plant foods. They play an important role in the digestive process because it helps move food through the digestive tract, adding fecal consistency (which can move quickly through the intestine to the anus, making it easier to eliminate during the defecation process). In addition, diets that are rich in fiber help reduce the risk of obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or stroke. Fibers also have other health benefits such as:
– slow absorption of sugar in the blood (a real advantage for people with diabetes type 2)
– can reduce bad cholesterol in the blood
– are good sources of vitamins and minerals
– help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of triggering certain bowel disorders
– promote weight loss (helps reduce caloric intake).
Experts in nutrition recommend consuming 30 grams of fiber each day. The best way to increase fiber intake as part of the management plan type 2 diabetes is to eat more of these foods:
– fruits and vegetables
– beans and peas (cooked)
– brown rice
– bran products.
Fats in the type 2 diabetes diet
Because diabetes increases the risk of triggering heart disease, it is important to include in your diet foods that are low in fat – especially saturated fat. In addition, limiting caloric intake of fat can help reduce the body weight, especially if regular exercise occurs as well.
Here are some ways that you can benefit from a healthy daily intake of fat:
– choose lean meat and fish and eat more protein from vegetable sources
– eat low-fat dairy such as cheese, milk and yogurt – all with a low content of fat
– use vegetable oil when cooking and avoid eating margarine
– avoid consumption of sauces from the markets.