Dr. G’s Top 5 Foods to CONTROL Blood Sugar
When it comes to type 2 diabetes, most people focus on what NOT to eat.
But living a life of deprivation can get discouraging fast—and it’s a big reason why people find it so difficult to make long-term dietary changes.
I like to focus on the positive.
When you think about all the foods you CAN eat—tasty foods that actually help manage blood sugar levels and help your body use insulin more effectively—you can make lasting changes that are easy to make into a lifestyle.
Here are 5 tasty foods to add to your diabetes-busting diet.
Blueberries
That’s right—this tasty, delicious, sweet fruit is great for diabetics.
In addition to being a great source of fiber and antioxidants, blueberries contain compounds that help improve your body’s use of insulin.
In fact, one study showed that eating about 2 cups of blueberries per day improved insulin sensitivity in people with insulin resistance.
Apples
Yes, this is another sweet option for diabetics.
Apples are a great option for diabetics because they’re a low-glycemic food, which means the sugar from the food gets released more slowly into your bloodstream. This helps prevent dangerous after-meal blood sugar spikes.
Eating primarily low-glycemic foods is an ideal way to manage your blood sugar levels.
Beans
Beans (like lentils, kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas) make the list because they have a low glycemic index.
One study showed that eating 1 cup of beans every day lowered HbA1C levels by a half a percentage point.
Almonds
For another beneficial snack, grab a handful of almonds.
This tasty nut is rich in magnesium, which helps your body use insulin more effectively.
It is also high in monounsaturated fatty acids, protein, and fiber—all of which contribute to better blood glucose control.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are great for diabetics because they can help manage your weight—which is the best solution for people with diabetes.
One study showed that adding just one ounce of chia seeds to a calorie-controlled diet for six months helped people lose four pounds and 1.5 inches from their waist.
Chia seeds are a great addition to a healthy smoothie, or you can mix them with milk or almond milk to create a type of pudding. Top it with sliced almonds and blueberries, and you have the perfect anti-diabetes snack food.
