Type 2 diabetes is an incredibly serious metabolic condition in which the body can no longer regulate its own blood sugar levels to keep them in a safe range. Over time, problems with the blood sugar can result in damage to the eyes, nerves, heart and kidneys and it is considered to be one of the top ten causes of death in the United States.
The good news is, however, that with a consistent, healthy lifestyle, Type 2 diabetes is largely reversible. Nutritional therapy pays an enormous role in this reversal. Below are ten foods which have been shown to be particularly beneficial for those coping with day to day management of diabetes.
Maple Syrup
New research from the University of Rhode Island found that maple syrup contains a newly-discovered compound called Quebecol, found to be extremely helpful in controlling diabetes and regulating blood sugar levels.
Turmeric
The list of health benefits from turmeric just keeps growing. Research is finding that this deep-gold spice which lends its color and taste to so many curries may be helpful in controlling blood sugars and other important biological markers for Type 2 diabetics.
Fenugreek
Research has also found that another common Indian spice, fenugreek, can have a positive impact on those with Type 2 diabetes if consumed regularly. It is speculated that is because it helps with liver function, and the liver is key to controlling blood sugar levels.
Fatty Fish
A recent study of the Yup’ik people, indigenous to Alaska, found that though nearly 70% of them are obese, only about 3.3% of the population is diabetic. It is believed that this low rate of diabetes is due to the fact that their diet is largely based on fish like salmon, which is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Chocolate
Chocolate, especially in the form of cocoa powder and baking chocolate, contains high levels of flavonoids that help reduce the risk of insulin resistance, a factor that must be controlled into order to prevent the onset of diabetes.
Coffee
Recent research out of UCLA finds that coffee consumption increases the levels of a protein which binds sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, both of which are suspected of playing a role in Type 2 diabetes development.
Grapes and Red Wine
The polyphenols present in grapes and red wine can help normalize the body’s blood sugar levels and keep those levels in a healthy range, something which is key to good diabetes management.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins and other complex plant-based compounds which help people to lose weight, particularly in the abdominal region. This is of great importance in preventing or reversing diabetes, since abdominal obesity is a major risk factor for this disease.
Beans
Beans have been shown to normalize blood sugar and insulin levels and either prevent diabetes or greatly minimize its effects. This is believed to be largely due to its high levels of both fiber and antioxidants.
Coconut Oil
The long-chain fatty acids in coconut oil can supply the body with quick energy not based on carbohydrates; these acids are also associated with abdominal weight loss.
In short, diabetics who regularly consume the foods above can greatly reduce the effects of and sometimes even reverse their diabetic condition.
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