When you have type 2 diabetes, taking time to plan your meals goes a long way toward controlling your blood sugar and weight.
Along with healthy eating, you can help keep your blood sugar in target range by maintaining a healthy weight. People with type 2 diabetes are often overweight or obese. Losing even 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) can help you manage your diabetes better. Eating healthy foods and staying active (for example, 60 total minutes of walking or other activity per day) can help you meet and maintain your weight loss goal. Activity lets your muscles use sugar from the blood without needing insulin to move the sugar into the muscle cells.
Everyone has individual needs. Work with your healthcare provider, registered dietitian, or diabetes educator to develop a meal plan that works for you.
