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Meal Ideas for Type 2 Diabetes

Finding out you have type 2 diabetes doesn't mean you have to give up good food. Eating healthy, well-balanced meals is important in managing blood-sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol and weight. Meal ideas for type 2 diabetes include controlling portions, counting carbohydrates and choosing a variety of foods.

  1. Breakfast

    • It's important to have a good breakfast. Type 2 diabetics should never skip a meal. For busy weekday mornings yogurt with low-fat granola and fresh fruit is healthy and quick. Eat a bowl of real oatmeal topped with fresh or dried fruit and chopped nuts for a breakfast full of fiber. Whole-grain cereals, fresh fruit and low-fat or skim milk will get you going. For more leisurely days, try french toast made using whole-grain bread and sugar free syrup. Egg substitute omelet, low-fat cheese and vegetables is filling.

    Lunch

    • It may be tempting to grab a quick bite or work through lunch. Here are some meal ideas to tempt you. For workdays, pack a turkey sandwich on whole-wheat bread, a piece of small fruit and vegetables such as carrots, broccoli or cucumbers with a cup of low-fat dip. Also try a macaroni salad using tuna, whole-wheat pasta and a light mayonnaise; a small salad with a light dressing; and a piece of fruit. For the weekends, a pasta salad mixed with vegetables and a light salad dressing or lean meat and vegetables on whole-wheat bread will hit the spot.

    Dinner

    • Dinner can be delicious and filling. Try healthy meal ideas such as roast chicken in olive oil, mashed potatoes or a baked potato, and broccoli. Strips of lean meat mixed with peppers, broccoli and carrots make an quick and easy stir fry dinner. Eat grilled fish, long-grain rice and spinach sauteed in olive oil, with sugar-free pudding for dessert.

    Snacks

    • Snacks are a tasty way to keep up blood-sugar levels while satisfying your hunger. Vegetables and dip are great for work or home. Low-carb crackers with peanut butter or cheese are a great snack anytime. Other snack foods include low-fat mozzarella sticks, small box of raisins, nuts, half an apple or low-fat popcorn.

    Eating Out

    • With today's busy lifestyle, it's easier to eat out than cook at home. While it's best to fix your own meals, keep these things in mind for fast-food or sit-down restaurants. Salad is always a good choice with low-fat or fat-free dressing, and avoid fried chicken and croutons as salad toppers. Chili is a good choice, as are broth soups over cream-based soups. Burgers or other sandwiches are okay if ordered without the sauces. Fast-food menus have healthy choices that are great for on the go. Stick with whole-grains breads, lean meats with gravy on the side and steamed vegetables for dinner. Watch portion sizes since they may be large ones. Share a plate or take home a doggie bag.

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