In this video, we delve into some essential guiding principles for food choices if you have type 2 diabetes, and I’ll show you how to make a healthy and nutritious breakfast option: Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Quinoa. Not only is it delicious, but it will also keep you full and, perhaps most importantly, it's really quick and easy to make.

If you've recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you may feel overwhelmed by the need to alter your lifestyle and food choices to better manage your health. However, a few guiding principles can help keep you on track. First of all, each person's health circumstances are unique, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all diet for people with type 2 diabetes. You might want to consult a dietitian to get guidance that's specific to your case. However, in general, you should aim to make consistent healthier food choices in a way that's realistic and achievable so that you can stick to them. That's the most important thing.

Now, for this reason, I'd suggest five key principles:

1. **Cutting down on your consumption of red and processed meats.**
2. **Reducing highly processed carbohydrates, like white bread, and swapping them for whole grain varieties.**
3. **Avoiding sugary drinks such as soda and juices.**
4. **Trying to eat five portions of fruits and vegetables a day.**
5. **Managing your portion sizes by planning out your meals in advance, which can help you feel in control of your diabetes and prevent you from falling back on unhealthy options out of convenience or hunger.**

Eating a healthy and satisfying breakfast can help start your day off on the right foot. It can stop you from feeling hungry and prevent unnecessary snacking, while also contributing to your intake of essential nutrients. I know a lot of people turn to breakfast cereals as a convenient and fast option, but many cereals, even those marketed as healthy, are actually packed full of added sugar, which won't be good for your blood sugar control.

Instead, one easy and healthy alternative that you can make the night before so it's ready to go in the morning is Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Quinoa. This is also a great recipe for batch cooking, so you can make a big enough portion to last throughout the work week. Here’s what you’ll need:

- 2 and 1/2 cups of quinoa
- 7 and 1/2 cups of water
- Five large apples
- 2 and 1/2 tablespoons of cinnamon
- Greek yogurt (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)

Here's how to make it:

1. First, peel and core the apples, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Next, add the quinoa, water, and apples to a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Cover it and reduce to a simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. The apples will be soft, and the quinoa will have absorbed the water.
3. Stir in the cinnamon.
4. Transfer the mixture into five bowls.
5. Finally, you can serve it with a dollop of plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped nuts if you want. Greek yogurt is high in protein and will keep you feeling fuller for longer, and nuts are also high in protein and fiber, which are good for your digestive system.

That’s it! This is a healthier option compared to processed breakfast cereals and will help you stick to your healthy eating goals while managing your type 2 diabetes.

If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how you find it! Also, please feel free to share other recipes that you enjoy, which are suitable for people with type 2 diabetes, in the comment section. Feeling part of a healthy community can go a long way in keeping you and others motivated in your own journey with diabetes.

Finally, I've included lots more useful resources in the description box of the video related to type 2 diabetes in general. If you're looking to scale your medical brand on YouTube or are interested in sponsoring our videos with your products, don't hesitate to reach out. Your support helps us continue to provide valuable content to our community.

Thank you for watching, and here's to your health!