The Best Dietary Choices for Diabetics

(Newswire.net — January 31, 2018) Cheyenne, Wyoming — Faced with either insulin deficiency or the inability to use insulin proper once it’s produced, diabetics must consider special dietary concerns to condition this potentially deadly condition. With approximately 1.6 million deaths due to diabetes reported in 2015, it’s worth paying attention to the details involved in living a healthy lifestyle. 

“Healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco use are ways to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes,” says the World Health Organization. “Diabetes can be treated and its consequences avoided or delayed with diet, physical activity, medication and regular screening and treatment for complications.” 

The ideal diet for diabetes incorporates foods that are rich in minerals, fibers and vitamins. Avoiding red meat is also recommended, consuming it in moderation is fine but legumes, nuts, omega-3 rich fish, fruits and leafy vegetables are most beneficial. 

With a host of beans to choose from, such as kidney, pinto and black beans, it’s easy to obtain a great deal of protein and dietary fiber. On the other end of the spectrum, leafy greens like spinach and kale offer iron, calcium and vitamins A, C, E and K. 

As far as fruits are concerned, citrus like grapefruit, oranges, lemons and limes are best for acquiring vitamin C, folate and potassium. Turning to berries is a nice way to introduce a bit of fun and sweetness into one’s diet, everything from blueberries to strawberries are packed with antioxidants, manganese, potassium, fiber, vitamin C and K. 

As mentioned before, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids is ideal for diabetes as it’s advised by the American Diabetes Association Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes to be consumed at least two times a week. The method of preparation is instrumental in delivering maximum nutrients. Fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, albacore tuna and other fatty fish are best broiled, baked or grilled. 

Feeling full is easy when nuts and whole grains are consumed as they’re high in fiber and healthy fats. Oats, quinoa and whole grain barley are excellent sources of fiber, iron, folate and B vitamins. 

Last but not least, dairy products are essential for maintaining strong teeth and bones, courtesy of its high calcium content. Vitamin D is also provided in most fortified milk and yogurt brands available on the market. Specifically for diabetics, it’s recommended that yogurt low in fat and added sugar be sought out. 

Creating and following a meal plan revolving about the aforementioned items is the best way to combat the ill effects of diabetes by wisely using the power of food. A part of ensuring optimal health, it’s vital to keep tabs on acid and ketone levels throughout one’s body so regular at home urine tests are encouraged. There are a number of strips available and using one that offers 99% accuracy in seconds such as the HealthyWiser™ Ketone Reagent Strips for Urinalysis is the most ideal choice for such an important task.