According to the National Diabetes Information Clearing House (NDIC), can live a healthy, full life by controlling their blood sugar intake. Ask your doctor about your target range and then make smart food choices.
In this article you’ll also find some special ‘miracle foods’ that can help control blood sugar. These should be part of every diabetic’s diet, and since they’re low in fat and high in nutrients, they can also be a crucial element in a successful weight loss program.
1. Beans
Beans are rich in fiber, which help you feel full and release energy on a steady basis, so your blood sugar levels remain steady. They can even lower cholesterol and are rich in calcium, which some claim can lower body fat.
If you’re on a weight loss program—and diabetics are strongly encouraged to stay within their target weight—beans are a low-fat source of protein.
Beans are also very versatile. You can turn them into a hearty main course like chili, or add them to a chunky soup. They can also be added to salads, and long beans can be steamed and eaten on their own.
2. Dairy
Studies show that women who reach their recommended daily intake of 1,200 mg of calcium a day are less likely to become diabetic. However, regular milk is high in saturated fat. If you’re in a weight loss program, get calcium from low-fat milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
Milk is a great drink, but it can also be used in soups and oatmeal. Yogurt can also be used in cooking, or eaten on its own. Cottage cheese can be served on crackers.
3. Salmon
Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which lower your chances of developing heart disease and boost your insulin resistance. It is also a great source of Vitamin D.
To reap the full benefits, eat salmon twice a week. Bake salmon fillet, or flake it and add to omelets.
4. Tuna
Even just a three-ounce piece of tuna contains 1,300 mg of omega 3. People who are concerned about mercury levels (especially pregnant women—mercury has been linked to birth defects) should get light canned tuna and consume just 12 ounces a week.
Tuna is very versatile. Tuna fillets can be grilled, while canned tuna can be used in salads and sandwiches, or mixed with other ingredients to make a burger.
5. Barley
Barley is rich in beta-glutan, a type of fiber that helps lower your bad cholesterol and prevent your body from absorbing it. Even just 3 grams of barley a day can cut your cholesterol by 8%. It is also very filling, so it is an excellent component of a low calorie weight loss program. Since you feel full longer, there’s less chance of overeating. it’s It is delicious in stews and soups, and can be used in rice pilaf.
Hulled barley is more nutritious and filling than pearl barley. This can be found in health food stores. These have to be soaked overnight.
6. Oats
This is rich in fiber and has been linked to lower cholesterol and better insulin resistance. It can also help stabilize sugar levels because it helps your body break down and absorb carbohydrates at a much slower rate.
Eat oatmeal for breakfast or, for a change, make oatmeal pancakes. You can also use them as an ingredient in meatloaf.
7. Green vegetables
These are a great source of fiber and calcium. The variety of greens also means that you can eat them everyday and still enjoy different dishes and flavors. Fill your shopping cart with lettuce, chard, and turnip, mustard, beet greens, just to name a few.
Green vegetables are also rich in folic acid, an essential nutrient in pregnancy. Thus, they are particularly important for women with gestational diabetes, since folic acid can help prevent neural tube defects.
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