From extreme thirst, high blood pressure, and fatigue to pancreas malfunctions and excessive urination, diabetes could take a toll on you. Excellent management requires you to consider several lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and dietary changes. These changes allow the body to avoid significant consequences, including fatalities. Yet, diet is one of the most critical elements in this journey. You will have to consider the following dietary changes in this pursuit.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an excellent choice for most people with diabetes. Including these nutrients in your dietary plan will help increase the fiber content in your body. An increased amount of fiber in your body will improve the digestion process, slowing down the entire process to help keep the blood sugar and glucose levels in check.
You’ll also note that whole grains and whole wheat have a relatively low glycemic index compared to wheat products and rice. These whole grains will ensure that you remain full and satisfied for a long time. They will also significantly help manage the effects of diabetes.
Remember, small amounts of other nutrients, including proteins, fiber, vitamin B, and antioxidants, are in whole grains. The best whole grains to consider include whole grain pasta, whole grain bread, millet, buckwheat, bulgur, and rye.
Leafy Vegetables
Leafy vegetables are an exceptional addition to your dietary plan. These green vegetables provide people with diabetes with antioxidant properties, protein, fiber, and starch-digesting enzymes. You’ll also be confident of enough minerals, vitamins, and fiber. Fiber-rich vegetables come in handy in controlling blood sugar and glucose levels.
Vegetables often help keep blood pressure in check. While they are incredibly nutritious, these veggies come with relatively few calories, ensuring that you are healthier in the long run. In addition, they are low in digestible carbs, implying that they will hardly affect blood sugar levels. The antioxidants in these foods help fight free radicals and prevent cell damage.
Various leafy vegetables suffice in pursuit of a healthy life. You can eat spinach, collard greens, cabbage, and bok choy. Besides, broccoli and kale will also be excellent choices.
Fatty Fish
Undoubtedly, oily fish is a favorite dish for most people. Such fish contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which will help protect you against different health conditions. Its long-chain fatty acids will also help improve your nervous system, which is susceptible to damage when you have diabetes.
Fatty fish is an excellent addition to your dietary plan to improve your heart and brain health. It will also ensure that your body functions more seamlessly in the long run. In addition, the fats in this oily fish will help manage the blood and glucose level in your body. Excellent blood sugar control is necessary for any person living with diabetes.
You have multiple options from which to choose. The best fatty fish on the market include salmon, sardines, herring, and trout. You could also opt for mackerel and albacore tuna, including preserved options.
Nuts and Citrus Fruits
Suppose you have diabetes and need a snack. In this case, it would be best to consider nuts, including walnuts and almonds. Nuts are perfect for keeping your weight and blood sugar levels in check. However, portion control is essential when eating nuts, thanks to their high-calorie content.
Experts at the Omaha Diabetes Clinic suggest that you could also opt for citrus fruits. These fruits have enough minerals and vitamins, which help improve your nerve health. The minerals and vitamins in citrus fruits include potassium, folate, and vitamins C.
In conclusion, your health is essential. Including the options above in your diabetic dietary plan will help manage your health better in the long run.
