Dining out with type 2 diabetes: 7 mistakes to avoid
Restaurant meals can be difficult to navigate when you're working to control your blood sugar. These strategies can help.
Jan 18, 2026
Written byJameson Kowalczyk








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Restaurant meals can be difficult to navigate when you're working to control your blood sugar. Making healthy choices isn't always easy. "Things you think are healthy may be deceiving. Salad sounds like a great choice, but the dressing can add 300 to 400 calories, not to mention the sodium and fat," says Janice Baker, a registered dietitian/nutritionist and diabetes educator in San Diego.
But there's no need to avoid dining out, Baker adds. Finding diabetes-friendly options is becoming easier, even in many fast-food restaurants, especially if you plan ahead, read menus carefully, and aren’t afraid to ask for healthy substitutes. Here are more tips to keep you on track.
Sources (11)
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