Can Type 2 Diabetes be Controlled with Fruits and Vegetables?

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Does the word “vegetarian” conjure up images of people with long hair, wearing robes, feasting on bean sprouts and tofu? While that may have been the picture of vegetarianism back in the 1960’s and 70’s, today’s vegetarian is just like you and me, except for some of the food choices he makes.

Vegetarian diets, if properly planned, can provide certain health benefits and even help prevent some diseases. In general, vegetarian diets are lower in calories, saturated fat, cholesterol, and animal protein, and higher in dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants than more traditional, animal-based diets. Vegetarians tend to have a lower body-mass index (BMI), as well as lower rates of heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer than non-vegetarians.

Vegetarian diets can also be beneficial for people who already have diabetes. But take a gradual approach. You know from having diabetes how challenging it can be to make many changes at one time. The same applies to becoming a vegetarian. Giving up meat, chicken, fish, and possibly eggs all of a sudden can be a shock to the system—especially if you’re not sure what else you’ll eat!

Remember that vegetarian eating can lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. Vegetarians tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI) and may have lower rates of osteoporosis, gout, and kidney stones. But before you take the plunge, consider meeting with a dietitian to help you plan a strategy.