Foods That Benefit Diabetics

According to the Centers For Disease Control, about 21 million Americans have diabetes, but at least six million don’t know they have it.  Even more startling—the CDC estimates that another 41 million Americans have pre-diabetes, which means many U.S. residents lead lives that put them at risk for getting the disease. 

If diabetes goes untreated, it can lead to blindness, stroke, kidney failure, heart attack and amputations.  Fortunately, early detection can prevent the complications of diabetes.  When diagnosed early and treated correctly, diabetes can be controlled and the complications may be avoided or possibly delayed.

Recently, much has been made of the role a person’s diet plays in preventing and controlling diabetes.  Certain foods have been shown to minimize the risks of the potentially deadly disease, including some types of whole grains.  Studies show whole grains containing the soluble fiber beta glucan or phytochemicals, which lower blood sugar levels, benefit those with diabetes and should be added to their diet. The best whole grains include oats, barley, buckwheat and quinoa. If you suffer from diabetes you should aim to get three servings of high soluble fiber whole grains each day.

In addition to whole grains, research shows vinegar and cinnamon also affect diabetes.  According to health experts, two tablespoons of vinegar taken before meals can help lower blood sugar levels and insulin. Likewise, cinnamon, which contains proanthocyanidin (a substance that acts like an insulin substitute and lowers blood sugar and triglyceride levels by increasing insulin activity), has also been proven to help those with diabetes.  Doctors recommend that diabetics consume about 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon daily.  The spice can be mixed in oatmeal or sprinkled on toast or added to smoothies.

With the success of cinnamon added to a diabetic’s diet, researchers have been examining the effects of other spices on the disease. Scientists say they are finding other spices may also help to lower blood sugar levels including cloves, coriander, cumin, sage and bay leaf.

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