### Managing Type 2 Diabetes with Intuitive Eating Managing type 2 diabetes often involves significant dietary changes, but a strict diet isn't always the answer. The author of this article shares her journey of living with type 2 diabetes for 17 years, starting from the age of 29. Initially, she followed traditional dietary guidelines, focusing on vegetables and proteins while avoiding other foods. Despite years of dieting and attending various diabetes education programs, she struggled to maintain consistent blood sugar control. Last year, she decided to try a different approach by working with an anti-diet nutritionist, Lauren Newman. Lauren introduced her to intuitive eating, a method that emphasizes listening to your body's hunger and fullness cues rather than following strict dietary rules. This approach helped her break free from the cycle of restriction and binge eating, which often led to feelings of shame and guilt. Through intuitive eating, she learned that many factors beyond food can affect blood sugar levels, including stress, hormones, and even the weather. This realization allowed her to focus on a more holistic approach to managing her diabetes, considering multiple aspects of her health rather than just her diet. Working with Lauren also improved her relationship with her healthcare team. She communicated her experiences and challenges with her doctor, leading to a more collaborative and supportive approach to her care. This shift helped her feel more in control of her diabetes management and less like she was constantly failing. In summary, intuitive eating can be a valuable tool for managing type 2 diabetes. It encourages a more balanced and less restrictive approach to food, helping individuals focus on overall well-being rather than just dietary compliance. By considering various factors that influence blood sugar levels and fostering a supportive healthcare environment, intuitive eating can transform the experience of living with diabetes.