Type 2 diabetes occurs two-three times more often in overweight people - particularly those who are inactive. Obesity causes the body cells to resist insulin and the resultant build up of glucose leads to diabetic symptoms. Weight loss, coupled with a healthy diet and good exercise often corrects this condition in Type 2 diabetes. By reducing weight, the need for oral antidiabetic drugs can also be prevented or their dosage lessened. Within several weeks, your body cells can lose their resistance and become sensitive once again to the effects of insulin. Insulin and blood glucose levels may normalize, and diabetes symptoms may disappear.

Weight control is also important for people with Type 1 diabetes as it contributes to a generally healthy lifestyle and longevity.

Using a food and exercise diary is an excellent way to keep on target with recommended diet and activity goals.

Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, good diet is essential for effective management. Drinking plenty of water and eating a wide variety of foods that provide a good balance of healthy fats, protein, carbohydrate, and fiber is recommended.

Actual food quantities, as well as when you eat, are also vital to blood-glucose control. Your dietitian can individualize a diet plan to suit your food preferences, lifestyle and health status. Here are a few hints on foods, eating patterns and carbohydrate distribution to keep in mind:  

Foods

• Eat foods rich in antioxidant vitamins C, E and beta-carotene (such as non-starchy vegetables and modified amounts of fresh fruit) as well as omega-3 fats (flax seeds/oil, salmon, tuna, sardines), magnesium (dark green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts/seeds, beans) and chromium (wheat germ, brewers yeast, liver). These foods may help to prevent long-term complications of diabetes, such as damage to small blood vessels and nerves.
  
• Choose wholegrain breads, cereals and pasta, and eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. These foods contain more fiber and slow the release of glucose into your blood after a meal.
  
• Limit foods that are high in added sugars. Small amounts of sugar as part of a meal may occasionally be okay, but you should discuss this with your dietitian. Artificial sweeteners may be an option.
  
• For circulation and heart health, limit foods that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol.

 Eating Patterns

• Don't skip meals. If you take insulin or an oral hypoglycemic agent, regular meals are important.
• If on insulin, eat meals at the same time each day and eat a similar amount of food at each meal. This allows for a steady release and usage of insulin.
• Leave an interval of about 30 minutes between an insulin injection and breakfast.
• Eat smaller amounts of food more frequently for steadier, more even blood glucose levels.

Carbohydrate Distribution

• An even carbohydrate distribution is very important in order to make best use of available insulin and to prevent extreme fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
• Ask your doctor or dietitian to help you determine the level of calories and carbohydrate most appropriate to your weight, medication, and activity. Use regular blood glucose checks to provide feedback.