A diabetic meal plan is often viewed as confining and restrictive. As individuals we often feel frustration when our choices are limited.

Type 2 Diabetes is often linked to lifestyle. Being overweight frequently causes the disease as does having poor eating habits. Even when the cause can be linked to reasons other than lifestyle and diet, the effects can be controlled with proper nutrition.

If you are not sure what Type 2 Diabetes is or how it differs from Type 1, it is not difficult to understand.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease (like cancer) and the pancreas stops making insulin. Insulin is the key that unlocks the cells and allows them to use glucose (sugar). If your cells can't absorb glucose your system overloads, the glucose becomes a toxin, and death follows. Without insulin injections a person with type 1 diabetes will die as a result of the disease.

Type 2 Diabetes results when the body can not make enough insulin, such can be the case of overweight or obese patients, or the insulin isn't the right "key" to open the blood cells. A person with Type 2 Diabetes may be able to control the disease with diet. It also may be treated with oral medicines when the problem is the interaction of the "key" with the cells or with injections of insulin when the body is not producing enough insulin.

Either type of diabetes can bring on very serous health issues if not managed and a diabetic meal plan is always part of effective diabetes management.

A balanced diet is key to managing either type of diabetes. Eating properly and portion control contribute to everything from weight management to blood sugar levels. For many, the diagnosis of diabetes is a wake up call that ushers in new lifestyle habits that have a dramatically positive effect on quality of life.

An excellent way to manage nutrition is by using meal replacement shakes. Most often associated with weight loss, meal replacement shakes are a delicious way to pack a lot of nutrition into a very compact caloric package. In addition to being available in a variety of flavors a meal replacement shake is "tuneable" for an individual's tastes and needs. You can add a variety of fruits for flavor and texture as well as additional protein, fiber or other nutrients to achieve a particular goal.

Many diabetics feel restricted because of how important it is for them to maintain proper nutrition and often their favorite foods are excluded because daily caloric intake is exceeded. A typical meal replacement shake is 200-250 calories, leaving plenty of room for other favorites in moderation.

Premium meal replacement shakes are available through specialized nutritional companies and usually include personal wellness coaching, an added benefit providing you with additional support for your goals. Shakes provided through reputable and established companies are far superior to products purchased through traditional retail channels.

Always follow the directions from your doctor. Test your blood regularly, eat healthy and be active. A quality meal replacement shake can help you manage your diabetes for a fuller and more enjoyable life.