For those living with diabetes, it is a matter of life and death when it comes to cutting back on sugar and carbs. Eating the right foods can help keep your blood sugar under control and reduce the risk of developing complications, for example, stroke, cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage. Well, make sure you stock up your grocery cart with these diabetes-friendly foods that can keep your blood sugar in check.
#1 Chia seeds
The viscous fibre found in chia seeds lowers your blood sugar levels by slowing down the rate at which glucose is absorbed into the blood. Also, fibre makes you feel full and help you eat less. Try mixing a healthy dose of chia seeds to your smoothie, yoghurt or soup.
#2 Greek yoghurt
Greek yoghurt is a great diary choice for diabetics. It contains more proteins and fewer carbohydrates than conventional yoghurts, which helps promote healthy blood sugar levels and reduces risk factors for heart diseases. Enjoy yoghurt as breakfast or snack with chia seeds or berries on top to fuel your day.
#3 Berries
Berries are a diabetes superfood. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are all low in sugar, high in fibre, antioxidants and low GI. Go ahead and pop them in your mouth, mix them with Greek yoghurt, or toss some in your dinner salad.
#4 Cinnamon
Studies have shown that this delicious spice can lower blood sugar levels, ward off insulin spikes and improve insulin sensitivity. How to include this diabetes-friendly spice in your diet? Just sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon to your morning yoghurt, smoothie, oatmeal or coffee and add some flavour to your food without having to add sugar or salt at all.
#5 Wild salmon
Salmon is a wonderful addition to your diabetes meal plan. It is a great source of high-quality protein that does not raise blood sugar levels, while its high contents of omega-3 fats can help reduce levels of triglycerides, a risk factor for coronary heart disease, to keep your heart healthy. Other types of fatty fish include sardines and tuna.
Apart from maintaining a proper diet and lifestyle, taking supplements may also help keep your blood sugar levels steady.