Having a healthy diet that will prevent blood sugar spikes and the worsening of the condition and is vital to managing and treating type 2 diabetes. However, it can be challenging to break bad eating habits and incorporate healthier meal options into your diet.
Two rules to abide by when you have type 2 diabetes is to watch your carbohydrate intake and control your portions. To help you devise your own diabetes-friendly diet plan, here are some healthy suggestions you can safely consume and even tweak as you please.
Breakfast Options
French Toast with Fat-Free Cream Cheese: If you avoid adding sugar to it and limit your intake to only two whole grain slices of bread, french toast with fat-free cream cheese and some fresh fruit on the side is a great way to start off the day.
Oatmeal with Fruits and Yogurt: Oatmeal is filling, fiber-rich, and has a myriad of health benefits. You can make your oatmeal with apple slice or other fruits and have it with a cup of Greek yogurt to get your protein fix in the morning as well.
Smoothies: In those mornings where you are running late, a delicious and nutritious smoothie is an ideal option. Of course, you should opt for unsweetened almond milk to make the smoothies and use fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants like blueberries, kale, spinach, and banana.
Lunch Options
Healthy Wraps: If you avoid condiments and dressings that are high in saturated fat and carbohydrates, a light wrap is an excellent choice for lunch. Make sure you choose whole grain wraps, use fresh vegetables, and use lean white meat cuts like turkey and chicken.
Fish with Salad or Legumes: Fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids have numerous health benefits, having grilled salmon with some salad, peas, or white beans is always a healthy option.
Dinner Options
Burgers: Yes, you can have burgers if you choose your ingredients right. With whole-grain buns, a turkey patty, tomato slices, and some lettuce, you can create your own special burger that you can indulge in now and then. Even a very light spread of reduced fat mayo and zesty ketchup is optional.
Whole-Wheat Pasta: With portion control and the right ingredients, a pasta dish can be fully balanced and nutritious. For instance, you can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, and top it off with some fresh parmesan.
Grilled Chicken Breast with Quinoa Salad: You can cook a cut of chicken breast with herbs and make a quinoa salad with vegetables of your choice on the side.
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