Diabetes is a prevalent medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 422 million people were living with diabetes in 2014 globally.

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or use insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. This leads to increased levels of sugar in the blood, which can lead to a range of complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, blindness, and nerve damage.

The most common type of diabetes, responsible for around 90% of cases, is type 2 diabetes.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. This condition is often associated with lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight.

Type 2 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 40, although it is becoming increasingly common in younger people and children.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, and slow-healing cuts or sores. If left untreated, complications may develop, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage.

The Benefits of Low-Temperature Diets for Diabetes

Recent research suggests that a low-temperature diet may help to manage blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.

A low-temperature diet involves eating foods that are minimally processed and cooked at low temperatures, such as raw fruits and vegetables, fermented foods, and lean protein sources.

The theory behind this diet is that cooking food at high temperatures creates advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which are harmful compounds that can accumulate in the body and contribute to inflammation, insulin resistance, and other health problems. By consuming a low-temperature diet, individuals may be able to reduce their intake of AGEs and improve their overall health.

Foods to Include in a Low-Temperature Diet

If you are interested in trying a low-temperature diet to manage your type 2 diabetes, here are some foods to include:.

Fresh fruits and vegetables (preferably raw or lightly cooked)
Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt
Lean protein sources such as fish, chicken, and tofu
Nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado

It is important to focus on whole, unprocessed foods and avoid sugary and processed snacks and desserts.

Foods to Avoid on a Low-Temperature Diet

Some foods are best avoided on a low-temperature diet, including:.

Fried foods and fast food
Processed meats like bacon and sausage
Sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts
Refined grains like white bread and pasta

Avoiding these foods can help to reduce your intake of AGEs and improve your overall health.

Other Lifestyle Factors to Manage Type 2 Diabetes

While a low-temperature diet can be helpful in managing type 2 diabetes, there are other lifestyle factors that are also important to consider. Regular exercise can help to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and maintain a healthy weight.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can also be beneficial in managing blood sugar levels and other diabetes-related complications.

The Importance of Diabetes Management

Managing type 2 diabetes is important for overall health and well-being. This condition can increase the risk of many serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

By taking steps to manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health through lifestyle changes like a low-temperature diet, individuals with type 2 diabetes can live longer, healthier lives.

The Bottom Line

A low-temperature diet may be a helpful way to manage type 2 diabetes by reducing the intake of AGEs and improving insulin sensitivity.

If you are interested in trying this diet, be sure to focus on whole, unprocessed foods and avoid processed snacks and sugary desserts. Pairing a healthy diet with regular exercise and stress management techniques can help to improve overall health and prevent complications associated with type 2 diabetes.