Without insulin, the body cannot utilize food for energy. People with diabetes have high blood glucose levels and many have high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The daily meal plan is tailored to an individual's needs. It is likely to include three meals and two or three snacks eaten at set times each day. Type 2 is treated with an individualized diet plan that usually restricts calories, especially calories from fat, so the individual can reach and maintain a healthy weight.
Treatment also includes following a regular exercise plan.
If diet and exercise do not control blood glucose, oral medication or insulin injections may be needed. Maintain optimal nutritional status. Reach and maintain a healthy weight. Usually, a doctor will prescribe a visit with a registered dietitian who can help the diabetic work out a specific meal plan. Often, the meal plan is a guide which shows the number of food choices to eat at each meal and snack using the diabetic exchange lists .