Diabetes is a condition that must be monitored through careful lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. People with diabetes have to be careful of what they eat to make sure that their blood sugar levels remain stable after eating. Certain foods can cause rises in blood sugar, while others can stabilize or reduce it.
Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is found in fruits, grains, legumes and vegetables. Many believe dietary fiber is good for digestive health, but it is also good for maintaining bowel health, weight loss, lowering blood cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, soluble fiber, which is found in oats, peas and beans, can slow the absorption of sugar in diabetics. The clinic also states that a diet high in insoluble fiber has been known to reduce the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.
Nuts
Eating a variety of unsalted nuts may have a surprising effect on blood sugar levels. After the consumption of certain foods, the blood sugar level rises, and with foods such as white bread or rice, levels may spike quickly. This spike in blood sugar may eventually cause a person to develop type-2 diabetes. According to a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, people who ate nuts or peanut butter fives times per week decreased their risk of developing diabetes. The study also showed that eating nuts along with foods may slow the rise of blood sugar after the meal.
Avocados
An avocado is a fleshy green fruit that is creamy in texture. Unlike other fruit, avocados do not increase in sugar content as they ripen. They also contain 60 percent monounsaturated fats, which are heart healthy. Avocados are also rich in fiber, which can help normalize blood sugar levels, and are considered slow-burning, so eating them won't cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
