Nutrition Support for Diabetics

nutrition support for diabetics
Learn tips about nutrition support for diabetics.

It’s estimated that 34.2 million Americans are suffering with diabetes. Officials say cases are rising at an alarming rate, and now more than ever, Americans need to be taking better care of themselves. The most important thing we can do to avoid and/or live with diabetes is to pay closer attention to the food we eat. That’s why November has been deemed American Diabetes Month, an important reminder to focus on nutrition support for diabetes.

The Truth About Diabetes

You’re probably aware that there are two main types of diabetes. Both are characterized by the inability or inefficiency of the pancreas to produce insulin, a hormone that our bodies produce to control blood-sugar levels. Here are some of the key differences between Type I and Type II diabetes.

Type I Diabetes

  • Only accounts for 5.2% of all diabetes cases.
  • Must be controlled with exogenous insulin.
  • Most commonly diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

Type II Diabetes

  • Most common, makes up 90% of all diabetes cases.
  • Treatment focuses mainly on diet, exercise and weight loss rather than exogenous insulin.
  • Typically develops after age 35.

Diabetes Complications

Diabetes is a serious disease that can have serious consequences if not cared for properly. That’s why lifestyle changes and nutrition support for diabetes are so important. Serious diabetic complications can include:

  • Heart disease and stroke
  • Nerve damage (tingling, numbness in limbs due to neuropathy)
  • Kidney failure
  • Poor circulation in feet resulting in infections or amputation
  • Loss of eyesight
  • Skin infections
  • Hearing Loss
  • Increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

Nutrition Support for Diabetes Support

The number one line of defense against compilations is nutrition support for diabetes. Research shows that diabetes is best managed with a healthy balance of vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates.

To be clear, we are talking about natural, whole, minimally processed food that limits sugar and helps regulate blood sugar. It’s important to think of nutritional support for diabetes in terms of what you CAN eat, versus what you CAN’T eat.

Supplements are important too. Here are some tips to help keep you on track.

Load Up on Veggies – Fill at least half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Pick the ones you like, but also experiment with new veggies and different ways to cook them or incorporate them into your favorite recipes. Examples of good, blood-sugar stabilizing vegetables include:

  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli or Cauliflower
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Cabbage (green, red, napa, bok choy, chinese)
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Cucumber
  • Eggplant
  • Leafy greens (kale, collards, mustard greens, or Swiss Chard)

Use a Natural Sweetener – You don’t have to say goodbye to dessert, just get a little creative with your sweets. Using natural sweeteners like Stevia or seeking out low-carb treats such as Net-O Keto Ice Cream which limit your intake of sugar and carbs can make all the difference in the world.

Fill Up on Lean Protein – Protein is what keeps you full and satisfied for longer. Choosing lean meats and alternative protein sources reduces your risk of cholesterol buildup, and can help you maintain a healthy weight. Examples of lean protein include:

  • Lean white fish (cod, tilapia, haddock, flounder)
  • Powdered Peanut Butter
  • Plain Greek Yogurt
  • Skinless Chicken or Turkey Breast
  • Lean Beef (95% lean)
  • Low-Fat Milk
  • Lean Pork (Pork Loin)
  • Beans, Peas and Lentils
  • Low-Carb Protein Shakes

Vitamins and Supplements – It’s important to choose high quality vitamins and supplements to help with nutritional support for diabetes. Some great support choices for diabetics are:

Nutrition support for diabetes is critical when it comes to maintaining your health for the long haul. With so many support options out there these days, staying on track has never been easier. Make a decision to take back your health today!