Type 2 diabetes is a condition that causes a person to lose control of their blood glucose levels. The risk for diabetes increases with age, making diabetes common in older adults. Medical experts estimate that approximately 25 per cent of adults over the age of 60 years have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition which means the the longer someone has it, the more help they will need to manage blood glucose levels. This may require medications and eventually, injected insulin could be needed. Fortunately with the right adjustments to lifestyle and diet, the condition can be better managed and potentially even reversed. These three foods could help lower blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes involves problems with not getting enough glucose into the cells.
When the sugar can’t get where it is supposed to be, it leads to elevated blood sugar levels in the blood stream, which can lead to complications such as kidney, nerve, and eye damage, and puts a person at risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Diets that are recommended for type 2 diabetics to follow include vegetarian, vegan, the Paleo diet, and the Mediterranean diet.
When it comes to snacks for type 2 diabetics, which ones are considered the best?
Strawberries
Studies show that eating strawberries, which have a low glycemic index, can lower blood sugar.
Strawberries provide significant amounts of essential nutrients, such as fibre, manganese, folate, and vitamin C.
The low glycemic index in strawberries and the beneficial plant chemicals help minimise any increase in blood sugar.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium, fibre, and healthy fatty acids.
Studies have suggested that some of the macromolecules in pumpkin seeds may help manage blood sugar levels for type 2 diabetics.
In animal studies, pumpkin seeds have shown to reduce blood sugar.
Pumpkin seeds have been associated with several health benefits including improving heart health, prostate health and protection against certain cancers.
Walnuts
Walnuts are a great choice for type 2 diabetics when it comes to snacking.
Walnuts are known to help build resistance for insulin, control blood glucose levels and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Walnuts are rich in dietary fibres which take longer to breakdown and digest which ensures the slow release of sugar into the bloodstream.
Walnuts also have a low glycemic index which makes them ideal for type 2 diabetics.
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