Diabetes is a very serious health condition, especially type 1. There are many possible health issues that can cause the development of this metabolic condition. But, most often, genetics are the primary cause.
Also, if left untreated, type 2 can become type 1 and cause insulin resistance. As a result, it is crucial that those with diabetes learn to manage their blood sugar levels.
This way, they can avoid some serious health problems. But, a healthy diet is nothing without exercise.
Therefore, it is important to take good care of our bodies if we want to manage our condition.
Also, it is important that we follow a healthy diet rich in nutrients. Here is a list of the most crucial nutrients for managing the condition.
Crucial Nutrients for Managing Diabetes
It is important to consume a healthy and well-balanced diet to manage both type 1 and type 2 properly. Fortunately, there are tasty and healthy foods that are full of nutrients.
These foods can be a perfect addition to our menu. Besides, they can be a powerful weapon for preventing the symptoms associated with this serious health condition.
Moreover, this diet is crucial because it allows a sufficient amount of nutrients to enter the body and manages blood sugar levels, and prevents inflammation.
However, to obtain the benefits the diet can offer, it is crucial that people stay active, sleep well, and avoid stressful situations.
These are all major factors in managing the condition.
Plant-Based Foods Are a Great Source of Nutrients
It is important that people have a sufficient amount of nutrients, especially if they want to manage type 1. Therefore, a diet filled with nutrients is the best way to stay healthy.
Plus, these foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds and are great for digestive and heart health.
Moreover, food is only a simple form of medicine for those with diabetes. But, there may be some core nutrients the body will need to manage the blood sugar levels, especially if it runs in the family.
As a result, it is better to consult with a doctor before making any changes to the diet.
What About Carbohydrates?
Despite popular belief, carbohydrates are not the enemy. Plus, there are other ways people can obtain proteins aside from eating meat.
Here is everything people need to know about the food sources we highly recommend you try.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a highly important mineral. It is responsible for various tasks in the body. Plus, it can even positively influence blood glucose management.
Therefore, it can be immensely useful for those with diabetes.
However, diets heavy in caffeine, sugar, and processed foods lack a sufficient amount of magnesium.
These diets lack foods that are the biggest source of magnesium, like whole plant-based foods. Therefore, adding these plant-based foods to the diet can help keep blood sugar in check.
Moreover, magnesium can help calm cravings, energy swings, mood, and headaches. Also, it can help for a night of better sleep.
The best sources of magnesium are:
- Cacao,
- Leafy greens,
- Nuts,
- Root vegetables,
- Seaweed,
- Seeds,
- Soy and Other beans
Chlorophyll
Some those with diabetes don’t know the effects of consuming chlorophyll. But, it is a powerful nutrient that can help with many health issues.
Moreover, it is found in some seeds, like pumpkin seeds, and all green plants.
What makes chlorophyll so beneficial is the ability to reduce inflammation and cleanse the blood. But, it also contains enough magnesium to keep blood glucose in check.
So, the greener the food, the more chlorophyll it contains. So, don’t forget to add green foods to the diet like:
- Arugula,
- Avocado,
- Broccoli,
- Chard,
- Hemp,
- Herbs,
- Kale,
- Pumpkin seeds,
- Seaweed,
- Spinach.
Chromium
Another mineral responsible for the healthy production of insulin is chromium. It can help manage blood glucose levels, prevent sugar cravings, and balance the overall usage of insulin in the body.
However, many people lack chromium in their diets, especially if they eat processed foods and a lot of sugar.
As a result, we suggest adding the following foods to the diet:
- Beans,
- Broccoli,
- Cacao,
- Green beans,
- Legumes,
- Nutritional yeast,
- Nuts,
- Seaweed,
- Seeds,
- Tomatoes,
- Cinnamon,
- Whole grains.
Also, people can get plenty of chromium by eating animal proteins as well. So, feel free to add them to the diet if they don’t affect the condition.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation and treat type 2. Also, they are rich in antioxidants which can help prevent excess oxidation.
As a result, we highly suggest that people add them to their diet. The most powerful anti-inflammatory foods are:
- Vegetables (dark green veggies, cauliflower, broccoli, onions, sweet potatoes, etc.);
- Beverages (green smoothies, raw juice, tea, wheatgrass juice;
- Fish;
- Fruits (berries, black currant, pomegranate, avocado, lime, etc);
- Plant-based oils (coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil);
- Seeds and Nuts;
- Spices and Herbs (oregano, basil, cloves, parsley, etc).
Fibers
Fiber is a necessity for managing blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is crucial that people include foods that are rich in fiber.
The best sources of fiber are:
- Vegetables,Â
- Unprocessed Grains,
- Whole fruits,
- Beans
- Legumes
- Nuts,
- Seeds,
- Root Vegetables.
But, before implementing any changes to the diet, we suggest that to consult with a doctor or a nutritionist.
