Figuring out which foods and beverages are the best choice when you have prediabetes or diabetes is not a piece of cake. That is because your main goal should be managing your blood sugar levels. Hopefully, we have all heard of the phrase “prevention is always better and inexpensive than cure”. Not a lot of people know but your diet can have a major role in preventing and managing diabetes. Since this chronic health condition can give rise to other complications like eye disorders and heart diseases, it is vital to manage it well. In this informative blog, we will discuss the 5 best foods to control diabetes and lower blood sugar.
Top Best Foods To Control Diabetes
As you may already know diabetes is one of the chronic health conditions where your diet plays a crucial role. Following the right diet and taking good care of your health can help maintain healthy blood-sugar levels. It is hard to figure out, however, which food items you should target and which you should avoid. Listed below are the top five foods that are worth adding to your meal plan if you are a diabetic patient.
1. Nuts And Seeds
Nuts and seeds such as walnuts and flax seeds are loaded with dietary fibre, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. Their impressive nutrient profile helps in keeping your blood sugar levels in check. Those who eat nuts and seeds on a regular basis have a low risk of developing diabetes. These superfoods are good for your heart health and cholesterol levels. Research shows that the regular consumption of a variety of seeds and nuts may also help in the glycaemic management in people suffering from diabetes. So, if you are a diabetic patient, you must always carry your favourite nuts and seeds with you as they help in controlling your blood sugar levels.
2. Oranges
It is a well-known fact that consumption of citrus fruits helps to lower the risk of diabetes. Oranges are the popular juicy citrus foods jam-packed with lots of fibre and essential nutrients. You can either eat the whole fruit each day or choose to drink orange juice. But make sure you don’t add any sugar to the juice. Both options are beneficial for diabetics. Moreover, oranges and other citrus fruits are great sources of folate, vitamin C and potassium that helps reduce and control your blood pressure.
3. Turmeric
Yes, you read that right! This golden spice is a blessing for diabetes patients. Several compounds in this yellow-coloured spice may promote your overall health. One of the well-known active ingredients found in this spice is curcumin. Because curcumin can help reduce diabetic inflammation and blood sugar levels, it could be used for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. There are many ways to add this golden spice in your diet, and the best way is to drink warm lemon water by adding a bit of turmeric on empty’s stomach every morning.
4. Beans
Next in the list, beans are a pretty compelling healthy-eating option. They contain a rich amount of vitamins and minerals like magnesium and potassium, which delivers the right amount of nutrients that help to manage diabetes and lowers blood sugar. Feel free to load half of your plate with this healthy-for-you vegetable. Well apart from eating healthy, it’s also vital to monitor your blood glucose levels to stay safe.
5. Spinach
This popular dark leafy green veggie contains just 21 calories per cooked bowl and is loaded with blood sugar-friendly magnesium and dietary fibre. Additionally, the high vitamin C content and antioxidants found in spinach can help prevent common diabetes complications. Add a handful of baby spinach in your salads, or add some into your morning smoothie.
The Bottom Line
Diabetes is one of the most common and chronic health conditions that has no proven cure yet. What a diabetic patient can do is manage this condition to prevent further complications. Therefore, add the above-mentioned diabetes-friendly foods to your diet, take prescribed medications and exercise regularly for better health. It is important to note that the foods you include in your diet can greatly affect blood sugar levels. Fortunately, people suffering from diabetes today also have access to advanced mobile applications to manage diabetes in a smart way.
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