What is the main goal of meal planning for a type 2 diabetic?

The primary goal of meal planning for a person with type 2 diabetes is to maintain stable blood glucose levels. This is crucial because fluctuating blood sugar can lead to both short-term complications (such as hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia) and long-term complications (including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy).

Effective meal planning includes balancing carbohydrate intake, incorporating fiber, controlling portion sizes, and timing meals appropriately to avoid spikes in blood sugar after eating. By focusing on stable blood glucose levels, individuals can better manage their diabetes, minimize the risk of complications, and improve their overall health and well-being.

Other aspects of meal planning, such as increasing food variety, reducing calorie intake, or enhancing nutrient absorption, can be part of the overall dietary approach, but they do not directly address the essential need for blood glucose stabilization in managing type 2 diabetes.