Carbohydrates are substances found in foods that are made up of sugars connected in chemical chains. These substances are necessary for building healthy muscle, tissue, bone and organ cells, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." They also provide energy to combat fatigue and loss of mental focus. However, excess carbohydrate consumption can raise blood glucose levels, which can contribute to diabetes. If you are at risk for diabetes, choose low-carbohydrate, organic foods as dietary staples.
Raw Vegetables
Raw, organic vegetables provide an abundance of nutrients for proper brain, muscle and organ function, according to David Wolfe, author of "The Sunfood Diet Success System." They are rich sources of vitamin A, phosphorus, calcium, vitamin C and B vitamins. Although vegetables contain carbohydrates, they provide lower amounts of carbohydrates than grain products, which are staples of the standard American diet. They also provide dietary fiber, which may help lower glucose levels in your bloodstream. Choose organic vegetables such as red bell peppers, broccoli, asparagus, kale, spinach, carrots and Swiss chard. Avoid starchy vegetables, such as potatoes and corn -- these are higher in carbohydrates than other vegetables.
Lean Meats
Lean, organic meats are abundant sources of protein, which is necessary for energy and cellular reproduction. These foods also provide vitamin B-12, which helps your body produce myelin, a fat that coats nerve endings and protects them against viral, bacterial and toxic damage. This vitamin is not reliably available through plant-based foods, according to Balch. Lean meats are also low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for a diabetic diet. Choose organic meats, such as chicken breasts, lean ground beef, fish, turkey and wild game meats.
Soy-Based Meat Replacements
Meat replacements made from organic soybeans are rich sources of protein for vegetarian and vegan diets, according to Paulette Mitchell, author of "The Complete Soy Cookbook." These foods are low in carbohydrates and saturated fats, and high in calcium and B vitamins. Soy-based meat replacements include tofu, textured vegetable protein and tempeh. Textured vegetable protein is a common ingredient in commercially packaged veggie burgers.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The Sunfood Diet Success System"; David Wolfe; 1998
- "The Complete Soy Cookbook"; Paulette Mitchell; 1998



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