Diabetes, the most prevalent lifestyle disorder of this century, is prevalent due to unhealthy eating habits, inactivity, and sedentary lifestyles.
In the last decade, the number of people with diabetes has tripled, and by 2030, 1 in 10 individuals worldwide may develop diabetes. Regulating blood sugar is essential for people with diabetes. The following ten foods can help regulate blood sugar levels:.
1. Avocado
Avocado has a low glycemic index, meaning it does not raise blood sugar levels rapidly.
Avocados are also rich in healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and decreasing oxidation levels.
2. Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, making them highly beneficial for insulin and blood sugar regulation.
Berries have low glycemic indices, so they don’t raise blood sugar levels rapidly.
3. Broccoli
Broccoli is a non-starchy vegetable that is high in fiber and nutrients. Broccoli has a low glycemic index, making it preferable to other high starch vegetables.
Broccoli is high in chromium, which aids insulin activity and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an ancient spice that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat multiple diseases. Cinnamon contains bioactive compounds that can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.
Adding cinnamon to your diet by sprinkling it on your food or making cinnamon tea can help maintain your blood sugar levels.
5. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them an excellent superfood for people with diabetes.
Chia seeds can help regulate blood sugar levels due to their high fiber content, which slows down the digestive process and promotes satiety, reducing the risk of sugar spikes after meals.
6. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help regulate blood sugar levels. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
Olive oil is also high in antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
7. Nuts
Eating nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and Pistachios, can help regulate blood sugar levels. Nuts are high in healthy fats, which can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote satiety.
Nuts are also rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent snack option for people with diabetes.
8. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a good source of low glycemic index carbohydrates that can help regulate blood sugar levels. Sweet potatoes contain carotenoids, which can help improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of blood sugar spikes.
9. Quinoa
Quinoa is a low glycemic index grain that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Quinoa can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and maintain blood sugar levels by slowing down the digestive process and prolonging the feeling of fullness.
10. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurts are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making them an excellent snack option for people with diabetes. Greek yogurt can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion, reducing the risk of sugar spikes after meals.
Conclusion
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking medication prescribed by a doctor are among the measures people with diabetes can take to maintain their blood sugar levels.
However, including the ten foods listed above in your diet can go a long way in helping individuals with diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels.