Diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, or the body cannot properly use insulin, according to Dr. James Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." People with diabetes are at increased risk of atherosclerosis, kidney disease, impaired nervous system function and heart disease. Left untreated, diabetes may result in coma or death. Balch and other medical professionals believe diabetes may be controlled with diet.
Diet should not replace medical attention for diabetes. Check with your physician before altering your diet to control the symptoms of diabetes.
Step 1
Substitute low-fat dairy products, such as skim milk and reduced-fat cheese, for whole milk and full-fat cheeses, advises the American Diabetes Association. This can help reduce the amount of saturated fat in your diet. Saturated fats can contribute to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, which can promote heart disease.
Step 2
Eat foods that contain complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads and cereals. Choosing whole-grain products instead of refined flour can help reduce blood sugar spikes, which can reduce the body's need for insulin, according to Balch.
Step 3
Include foods high in dietary fiber, advises Balch. Dietary fiber can help regulate blood glucose levels, preventing dizziness, headaches, fatigue and other common symptoms of diabetes. Root vegetables, nuts and beans are all abundant sources of dietary fiber.
Step 4
Reduce or eliminate intake of packaged snack foods, such as ice cream, cookies, candy and chips, advises the American Diabetes Association. These foods are typically loaded with sugars, sodium and saturated fats. Sugars can raise blood glucose levels, while sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease.
Step 5
Add garlic to entrées and side dishes. According to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs," the chemical compounds in garlic may help lower cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, which may reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks in diabetics.
Step 6
Limit intake of foods that contain vitamin B1, advises Balch. This vitamin may inactivate insulin, which can make it more difficult for diabetics to control blood sugar levels. Vitamin B1 is found in egg yolks, peanuts, pork products and poultry.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid using alcohol or tobacco in any form. Alcohol and nicotine can constrict blood vessels and arteries, making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood through the circulatory system.
Things You'll Need
- Low-fat dairy products
- Complex carbohydrates
- Fiber-rich foods
- Garlic
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch; 1997
- American Diabetes Association: Making Healthy Food Choices
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
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