holistic and eco-living · nutrition · Nov 16, 2015

14 Foods to Counter or Prevent Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious problem, one that can be controlled with a few lifestyle changes of diet and exercise. Discover 14 foods that help prevent diabetes.

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Diabetes is not a small problem, and it isn’t going away by ignoring it. This disease is a growing trend in both first and third world countries as our modern processes give humanity greater access to richer foods while also providing for a more sedentary lifestyle. We are slowly eating and sitting our way into a devastating disease. In the US alone we spend $245 billion each year on diabetes, about 26 million people have been diagnosed, about 79 million people are prediabetic, and over 70,000 people die from it each year, and that’s not counting the 160,000 people who die from other causes combined with diabetes.Genetics play a role, but we also see environment, weight, activity levels, and diet contributing to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Changes in diet and a moderate amount of exercise could save millions of people from developing the disease and help millions more control it, saving billions of dollars throughout the world each year as well. There are also many herbs and supplements that can help. As always, consult a health care professional before beginning any new diet or supplement, especially if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.

Bitter Melon

This bumpy, green fruit looks a lot like a cucumber and lives up to its bitter name, but has been studied for its ability to increase insulin sensitivity, regulate glucose uptake, and mimic insulin.

Apple

Apples are rich in several types of fiber that slow the uptake of sugars from digestion. This keeps blood sugar from spiking and lets the body keep up.

Cinnamon

This pungent spice does much more than give rolls a sweet kick. Cinnamon is gaining a lot of attention as an aid for diabetes. It helps control blood sugar.

Burdock Root

The root of this wild plant has been used as medicine for thousands of years to aid digestion and clear the kidneys. It also improves cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Garlic

Garlic and onions both can lower blood sugar to some degree.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds contain beneficial fiber and alkaloids that slow the absorption of sugar and increase insulin sensitivity.

Stevia

This herb is a natural sweetener so you can have sweet foods without the sugar, but it may also lower blood sugar apart from just being a substitute.

Magnesium

Deficiency in this vital mineral can be common in diabetics. It contributes to so many functions within the body including enzymes that process glucose. It has also been shown to limit the risks of developing diabetes.

Prickly Pear

This sweet fruit from cacti is full of rich fiber and several phytonutrients similar to insulin.

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that helps normalize blood sugar and enhance the effects of insulin, but only if you are deficient.

Bilberry

Bilberry is rich in antioxidants that protect the eyes from damage. This is especially important for diabetics. It may also lower blood sugar levels.

Ginseng

This herbal tonic has been used for a long time to boost energy, handle stress, and treat sexual dysfunctions. Some of these haven’t fared well in studies, but a more recent study showed it does help lower blood sugar levels.

Holy Basil

This herb is native to India and grows around temples where it is thought to clean and purify. It can help lower both cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Vinegar

Vinegar, when taken before meals, increases insulin sensitivity and minimizes the impact of the carbohydrates in your food. Vinaigrette on your salad is the better choice.Exercise, losing excess weight, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, stress relief, and avoiding processed foods helps too. These all let the body cope with glucose, oxidative stress, lipid levels, blood flow, and many of the other contributing factors to a multitude of illnesses, including diabetes.Learn more about stevia!References:

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