Diabetes is one of the most widespread medical conditions in the world today, and it is linked to several other diseases and issues that can have disastrous effects on your health. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but that is not to say that it is not manageable if you maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Medical experts agree that the key to living with diabetes is diet and exercise. According to experts at Forbes, diabetes can be challenging to manage, and a poor diet can aggravate the issues. A healthy diet is very much essential to maintain optimal blood glucose levels. Here are some foods you should consider keeping in your diet.
Vegetables
Vegetables should be one of the first things on any person’s diet, and it is the same for diabetes prevention and management. Highly fibrous, leafy green vegetables are the best choice for diabetes prevention. Kale, Brussels sprouts, and other cruciferous vegetables are fantastic sources of vitamins and minerals. Fiber is essential for your digestive system to keep ticking. Further, cruciferous veggies contain an anti-inflammatory agent called sulforaphane, which has been linked to the protection of blood vessels against damage, which may amount to diabetes. Spinach and other leafy greens also contain magnesium, essential for the synthesis, and use of insulin, which maintains blood sugar levels. Experts believe that diabetes control with diet is very much possible.
Nuts
Unstable blood sugar levels with constant spikes can be a critical risk factor for patients with diabetes. Snacks with high carbohydrate content can do tremendous harm, but they are understandably hard to quit. A great way to curb these cravings is by seeking foods that have a similarly crunchy texture while being high in protein. Nuts are a perfect candidate here, with their high fat and protein content, as they will keep you full until the next big meal. Further, polyunsaturated fats, which are present in several nuts, have been shown to play a role in slowing type 2 diabetes.
Fruits
Fruits have always been linked to a healthy lifestyle due to their roots in nature and the abundance of vitamins, and minerals contained in them. By including them in your daily meal plan, you can reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Further, by swapping sugary treats and snacks for fruits, you can also ensure that your blood sugar levels do not shoot out of control. High-fiber fruits like berries, citrus fruits, and apples are excellent choices for daily consumption.
Legumes
Lentils, chickpeas, and legumes in general, are fantastic “superfoods”. They are extremely versatile, can be cooked in several different ways, taste great, and have many nutritional benefits. The high fiber content is excellent for stabilizing blood sugar levels, and the high protein content is also likely to keep you feeling full for longer, meaning you do not resort to snacking and can maintain a healthy weight far more easily. Weight management is the key to mitigating the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion
A diet is a personal choice- while there are food items that are good and bad for you, it is crucial to design a diet that is nurturing and fulfilling at the same time so that eating feels like an enjoyable activity rather than a chore. Ideally, you should at least eat a variety of fruits, including berries. Moreover, introduce some healthy fats like nuts or nut butter. While each of these foods will play a part in staving off the danger of diabetes, it is up to you to find a combination that works for you.
