Researchers and experts believe that there is more than 100 million individuals around the U.S. that are currently living with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Diabetes is a medical condition in which the body has a problem producing or responding to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that the body uses to help regulate sugar which keeps the body healthy and energized. For individuals suffering from diabetes it is very important to watch your diet and sugar intake as elevated sugar levels can have many harmful effects.
Below are some great foods for most individuals who are recommended a sugar free diet or those taking insulin shots or other prescription medications (i.e., Lyrica, Trulicity, etc.):
1. Spinach
Spinach as well as other green leafy vegetables are some of the best things you can eat on a diabetic diet as they are very low in calories and contain a good amount of vitamin C which offers a lot of good antioxidants. Besides spinach some other leafy green vegetables that are good to eat include kale, Swiss chard, cabbage, romaine lettuce and arugula.
2. Nuts
Nuts are a great food for some diabetics and any individual looking to add some fiber and protein to their diet. Fiber can help to lower blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure in some individuals. Although nuts can be high in calories they are also abundant in a variety of different vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin E, calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Some good choices include walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans and many more.
3. Whole grains
Whole grains are a great choice of food for many individuals suffering from diabetes. Not only are whole grains richer in vitamins and fiber but they also break down slower which avoids a spike in blood sugar levels. Some good grain options include brown rice, buckwheat, amaranth, oats and more.
4. Granny Smith apples
Although many diabetics especially those who eat a sugar free diet must watch their fruit intake as they can be loaded with sugar doctors still recommend individuals get a good amount of fruits and vegetables during each day. Granny Smith apples tend to be one of the better fruit choices for diabetes as they don’t often cause a huge spike in blood sugar levels. Some other fruits that may be good for diabetics include blueberries, tart berries and lemon.
Over all these are just a few good food options for those looking to help keep blood sugar levels down. Some other great foods include cauliflower, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms and plain yogurt. In many cases, the above-mentioned foods can work in conjunction with doctor-prescribed diabetes medications. Search online for lyrica coupons or a trulicity medication discount and talk to your doctor about how these foods can help reduce diabetes symptoms.
