Our main source of energy is from the sugar that is carried in our bloodstream. This is also referred to as blood glucose. This blood sugar reaches one’s cells to be used for energy. The mechanism that performs this is controlled by insulin that is produced in the pancreas. If there is a problem with either the production or usage of insulin the blood sugar in one’s bloodstream doesn’t reach the cells and instead remains in the bloodstream causing high levels of blood sugar or diabetes. This can, over a period of time, cause serious health problems.

Managing diabetes

The glucose or sugar in our bloodstream comes largely from the food we eat. The easiest and most direct way to lower blood sugar levels is by changing one’s dietary intake of foods that raise sugar levels in the blood. One must also be aware of how foods manage diabetes and eat foods to help fight inflammation and other related problems that are caused by high blood sugar levels.

Carbohydrates

While the body does need carbohydrates for energy one must be more discerning as to which type of carbohydrates to retain in one’s diet. Always opt for healthier whole grains as opposed to processed grains and flour. Whole grain-based foods manage diabetes more easily than processed ones as they have higher fiber and nutrient content than processed ones.

Vegetables

Add a lot of fresh and frozen low carbohydrate vegetables to a diabetes diet to keep up a good nutrition intake. Canned vegetables have a high level of sodium and are not recommended. Green leafy vegetables are especially beneficial for diabetics as they have starch digesting enzymes as well as protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Green leafy vegetables do not impact blood sugar levels.

Fatty fish

Fatty fish is very good in a diabetic diet as they are high in Omega-3 acids, which are said to improve cholesterol as well as blood sugar levels. Some ideal choices are tuna, salmon, mackerel, and trout. Vegetarians can get these benefits by eating seaweed such as spirulina and kelp, as they too contain these fatty acids.

Chia seeds and flax seeds

Flax seeds and chia seeds are beneficial to diabetics as they are high in fiber and low in carbohydrates. They have viscous fiber that actually slows down the movement of food through the digestive process thereby lowering sugar levels.

Nuts

Diabetics are at a higher risk of heart disease, and adding nuts to their diet reduces inflammation and lowers blood sugar while also being heart healthy.

Fruits

Fruits, especially citrus fruits and berries, are a good way to get plenty of antioxidants and nutrients along with lower carbohydrates. However, processed and canned fruits and sweetened fruit juices are not a good idea.

Protein

Plant-based proteins are very good for diabetics. Poultry without the skin, fish, and seafood are preferable to other meats. When eating meat, lean and well-trimmed cuts are better.

Dairy

Always choose low-fat dairy products. Greek yogurt is loaded with probiotics and is good for general gut health and excellent for diabetics.