Diabetes
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
When a person eats foods and drinks that contain carbohydrates (carbs), such as bread, pasta, rice, cereals, fruit, starchy vegetables, milk, and yoghurt, the body breaks them down into a sugar called glucose.
Glucose enters the bloodstream and is used by the body’s cells for energy. Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose from the blood into the cells.
In people with type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin, or the insulin does not work properly (this is called insulin resistance). As a result, too much glucose stays in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar levels.
Risk factors include
- A family history of type 2 diabetes
- Having pre-diabetes
- Being above a healthy weight
- Lack of physical activity
- Getting older
- Being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
- Being from Melanesian, Polynesian, Chinese, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, or Indian backgrounds
How can a dietitian help me?
Dietitians can help individuals with type 2 diabetes by guiding healthy eating habits, managing carbohydrate intake, and supporting weight management when needed. Through personalized plans and ongoing encouragement, they can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.
Helpful resources
Diabetes Victoria – online pictorial healthy eating guide