Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, is a condition in which the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin or cells are resistant to insulin effects. This in turn leads to high blood sugar and insulin levels, which can increase the risk for heart disease, kidney failure and obesity. Research indicates that certain foods are better than others for controlling type 2 diabetes.
Protein Rich Foods
High protein foods, such as chicken, turkey, beef and fish, might help control glucose levels in type 2 diabetics, according to a study conducted by scientists from the University of Minnesota. The report, which was published in the October 2003 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," revealed that type 2 diabetics adhering to a high protein diet consisting of 30 percent of protein experienced decreases in blood glucose levels compared to those following a control diet of 15 percent protein.
High Fiber Foods
Researchers from St. Michael's Hospital performed a review of the clinical studies regarding the effects of dietary fiber on type 2 diabetics. At the end of the review, which was reported in the October 2009 issue of the "Current Diabetes Reports," scientists concluded that dietary fiber is effective for managing type 2 diabetes, since it reduces insulin and glucose levels. In addition, it decreases appetite and improves the risk of cardiovascular factors. Fiber rich foods include: beans, green leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes and brown rice.
Low Glycemic Carbs
Low glycemic carbs, such as whole wheat bread, all bran cereal, blueberries and oatmeal, might help control blood sugar levels, according to the American Diabetes Association. Low glycemic carbs do not raise blood sugar levels as high as high glycemic carbs such as white bread and white rice. This in turn keeps blood glucose levels low and steady, which helps control type 2 diabetes.
Black tea
Scientists from the Tianjin Key Laboratory in China studied the effects of black tea's ability to inhibit glucose absorption in the body. The report, which was published in the August 2009 issue of the "Journal of Food Science," revealed that black tea polysaccharides, a type of carbohydrate that include starch and cellulose, had the most glucose inhibiting properties compared to green and oolong teas.
References
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: An Increase in Dietary Protein Improves the Blood Glucose Response in Persons with Type 2 Diabetes; M.Gannon et al.; 2003
- Current Diabetes Reports: Fiber Facts: Benefits and Recommendations for Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes; V.Vuksan et al. 2009
- American Diabetes Association: Glycemic Index and Diabetes
- Science Daily: Black Tea May Fight Diabetes
