If you are diabetic then it is hard to figure out what to eat to feel better and keep your blood sugar under control. While it may feel like there are various foods which you need to limit, there are still many foods which you can enjoy and one thing that helps when figuring out is that what to eat is to keep the focus on the foods that you can add in your diet and should be consuming more of instead what foods to limit with diabetes. In this blog, we will explore the best foods for diabetic patients and natural options for managing diabetes that can help maintain stable sugar levels.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disease where the body itself cannot produce enough insulin and the body finds it hard to control blood sugar levels.
- Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- Type 2 Diabetes: It is the most common form of diabetes where one’s body becomes resistant to or is unable to use insulin effectively.
Why Diabetic Patients Ought to Worry about Food Choices
Your diet influences your blood sugar levels. Foods that are rich in simple sugars and carbohydrates can cause blood sugar to spike. Selecting the best foods for diabetes will improve insulin sensitivity, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risks of complications from diabetes.
How Common is Diabetes?
Diabetes is common these days. Research suggested that approximately 37.3 million people have diabetes whereas type 2 diabetes is most common, representing 90% to 95% of all diabetes cases. By consuming natural food for diabetes regularly can help you in maintaining blood sugar levels.
Top 10 Best Foods for Diabetic Patients
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that has been shown to lower cholesterol and keep blood sugar levels more stable. As per a 2019 study, researchers found that the people who include 3-6 grams of cinnamon a day in their diet had lower blood glucose levels. Also, it adds flavour to your food without adding salt and sugar.
Nuts
Nuts such as walnuts have been shown to help in fighting off heart disease and will improve blood sugar levels. Also, these healthy fats have been shown to help prevent and slow the progression of conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Since nuts are low in carbohydrates and high in fat and protein they will make them good for stabilizing blood sugar.
Oatmeal
Whole grains like oats are better for your blood sugar levels ( the fiber helps in minimizing spiking) and will help in improving insulin sensitivity. Oats have fiber in the form of beta-glucans which are soluble fibers and can cause oats to bulk up in liquid. Soluble fiber regulates blood sugar levels by slowing the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from other foods you consume.
Beans
Consuming various kinds of legumes that including beans will be valuable not only in the prevention of diabetes but also in managing blood sugar levels. Also, they have a low glycemic index which is crucial for managing diabetes and preventing it.
Leafy vegetables
Leafy vegetables are completely filled with essential minerals and other nutrients. Research suggested adding more leafy vegetables to the diet as it is shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. As per the research, it has revealed that type 2 diabetes has increased among the youth, and consuming leafy vegetables will lower the risk of type 2 diabetes in the long term.
Citrus Fruits
Consuming citrus fruits can be a good way to attain minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates. Since citrus fruits have two bioflavonoid antioxidants that are called naringin and hesperidin are responsible for the antidiabetic effects of oranges. Also, they are rich in polyphenols that have several health benefits that include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are one of the highest food sources of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fat which are high in minerals, proteins, and have been found to lower blood sugar levels. Moreover, chia seeds will let you achieve a moderate weight due to the fiber reduces hunger and makes you feel fuller.
Probiotic yogurt
Probiotic Yogurt is a promising agent for diabetic patients and LDL-C concentrations in type 2 diabetic people and can be a contributing factor in improving cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Berries
Berries have a high level of fiber and antioxidants. They have essential nutrients and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin K and manganese, and potassium. Since berries are filled with antioxidants that will help in preventing oxidative stress.
Avocado
Avocado is a perfect snack for diabetic patients. Since it contains monounsaturated fatty acids, essential nutrients, and will have properties specific to preventing diabetes.
Wrapping It Up
When, what, and how much you consume can make a huge difference in your ability to control your blood sugar when you are managing type 2 diabetes. A healthcare provider will let you manage the goals as well as reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure.
