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Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Discussion

Medical Nutrition Therapy & Activity

"Diets" are temporary. The goal of "medical nutrition therapy" is to promote healthy eating habits and to decrease obesity. There is no specific "diabetic diet;" it is the same as the "prudent diet" promoted for cardiac health.

Calories

Caloric control is the keystone. A negative caloric balance will reduce blood glucose levels before any reduction in weight is seen. It is unnecessary and impractical to aim for an "ideal body weight." A reduction of 5--10% of body weight often is sufficient to reduce blood glucose levels into the normal range. Note that the goal is not to lose weight but to lose fat. Improved glucose control and increased activity can increase muscle weight and results may only be evident in a smaller waist. An extreme reduction in calories can not be maintained. A modest decrease in calories can and, if continued, will have a better long-term effect.

Fat

People with diabetes mellitus are at high risk for cardiovascular disease. They often have hyperlipidemia. Their meal plan should aim for 30% or less of calories derived from fat and 10% or less saturated fats. Monounsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil, are best.

Exercise

It is not necessary to join a gymnasium or a high-impact aerobics class. Any increase in activity will improve insulin sensitivity of the muscles. Aerobic activities also will improve cardiovascular fitness and walking further on a regular basis is an excellent choice. Long sessions are not required; three ten-minute sessions are as effective as one thirty-minute period.

Exercise improves the body's response to insulin, lowers the risk of heart and blood vessel disease, burns calories, and reduces stress and tension.