Whole Foods for Diabetes
By Dr. Susan Jewell
Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people throughout the world. It is a medical condition that interferes with the metabolism and utilization of blood sugar in the body. People diagnosed with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, must carefully monitor and control their blood sugar levels in the body. Treatment of diabetes includes prescription medication, diet, exercise and nutrition. Natural foods can play a significant role in managing diabetes. Here are some natural foods to include in a diabetic food list.
Vegetables and Soy Protein
Vegetables and soy protein are important natural foods to include on the food list for diabetics. They provide the body with essential minerals and nutrients to help manage and control blood sugar levels and maintain proper bodily functions and biochemical reactions. Leafy, green vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts are excellent sources of potassium and magnesium. They are low in carbohydrate content and have few calories. Soy plant products such as tofu, soy milk and tempeh are natural high grade proteins that can be easily absorbed into the body. Additionally, vegetables and some soy products have a low glycemic index, a beneficial health indicator for diabetes.
Magnesium
Natural foods rich in magnesium content should be included on the diabetic food list. Magnesium is important for the regulation of insulin in the body and controlling blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients should increase their daily intake of magnesium rich foods such as spinach, oats, cashews, whole grains, bananas and green leafy vegetables.
Fruits
Fruits are important natural foods for diabetes. They provide essential minerals for a healthy body and are low in calorie and carbohydrate content. Include several servings of fruits in the daily diabetic diet. Fruits like cranberries, pomegranates, apples, citrus fruits, bananas, papayas and oranges are tasty to eat, have high nutritional content and a low glycemic index.
Herbs and Spices
Some natural herbs and spices possess anti-diabetic properties which can help to manage and reduce some of the symptoms of diabetes. Herbs like garlic can lower blood sugar levels. Cinnamon contains natural active ingredients, like MHCP (methylhydroxychalcone polymer), with insulin-enhancing activities and antioxidant effects. Exotic spices like turmeric and gooseberry can increase the activation of pancreatic cells to increase insulin production.
High Fiber Foods
A high fiber diet can reduce the symptoms of diabetes because it can lower the requirement for insulin in the body and help create a slower release of glucose the blood. Some examples of foods rich in high fiber content include chickpeas, oatmeal, beans, barley and peas. Other natural fiber foods like corn and lentils can also help to reduce blood sugar levels. Additionally, high fiber foods contain chromium, which is important for vital biochemical reactions in the body.
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