Diabetes is now one of the most prevalent diseases in the world. With over 300 million people affected, everyone must take care of their health and know what to eat for diabetes.
There are two different types of diabetes, and all forms of the disease share a common feature, improper handling of sugar levels in the bloodstream. When levels are too low, a person may experience hypoglycemia, leading to symptoms like headaches, anxiety, hunger, sweating, trembling, and fatigue. Here we shall discuss the best and worst foods for diabetes.
Here are the foods you might eat to regulate your sugar level. Remember to combine these with exercise and a healthy lifestyle for the best results.
• Fish
Oily fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that keeps the body's cell membranes flexible, regulating insulin receptors. This helps slow down the insulin absorption pace when it enters the bloodstream, thereby keeping sugar levels under control.
• Avocados
Some studies suggest that avocados may be suitable for diabetes in two ways. It provides a high content of healthy monounsaturated fats and highly digestible fiber, which help slow down carbohydrates' breakdown. It is important to note that avocados are high in fat, so you should eat them with other healthy foods.
• Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a good carbohydrate source. The effect of oatmeal on diabetes is based on the carbohydrate content. It has a low glycemic index (GI) of 36, which makes it suitable to be consumed before meals. This has been shown to lower blood glucose levels, making it a healthy food for people with diabetes.
• Apples
Apples contain the soluble fiber pectin, which slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Apples contain antioxidants and flavonoids that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with diabetes.
• Olive Oil
Olive oil can aid in the treatment and management of diabetes by improving the ability of insulin to gain entry into cells. It also has a role in controlling blood glucose levels and thus helps control your weight. However, you must consult your physician before using olive oil as it is not suitable for everyone.
• Bananas
Bananas are a good source of potassium and vitamins. They also contain small amounts of glucose, helping to control blood sugar levels after meals. Having bananas with a meal may also help your body better absorb and use the nutrients you eat.
The worst foods for diabetes are those high in sugar, sodium, and bad fats. Consumption of these foods will lead to weight gain and other related conditions. Here is our list of the worst foods for diabetes.
• High-Fat Foods
Avoiding eating high-fat foods can help control blood sugar levels. These foods usually have a prolonged effect on blood sugar, leading to an increase in insulin levels. Bad fats are present in foods like red meat, deep-fried food, and butter.
• High-Sugar Foods
Removing high-sugar foods from your diet can control sugar levels in the bloodstream. High-sugar foods include soft drinks, sugar, and white bread, all high in sugar. They can also cause weight gain, so you must take them out of your diet.
• Sodium
Consuming too much sodium can lead to a rise in blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Excess sodium also increases the retention of water in the body, which results in weight gain, thereby leading to obesity as well as diabetes.
• Alcohol
Alcohol can cause an increase in the blood glucose level and reduce the body's ability to use insulin correctly. Thus, it can lead to hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia, which increases the risk of diabetes significantly. It is recommended that you avoid consuming alcohol if you are diabetic or prone to the disease in any way.
• Processed Meats
Processed meats are high in saturated fats, which can cause undesirable weight gain and also increase the risk of diabetes. There has been a growing concern about the link between processed meats and conditions like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Diabetes can be treated very easily with regular monitoring of sugar levels in the bloodstream. The best predictor of diabetes is if you have a family history. You should consult your doctor if you suspect you may develop diabetes, as its symptoms may mimic other diseases.
Your diet plays a vital role in treating diabetes. You should know what you eat and how it affects your sugar levels. You must keep your blood sugar levels under control to avoid the associated complications of diabetes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.