Some varieties of lettuce are under development that could potentially offer hope for people with diabetes. Unfortunately, insulin-containing lettuce is still in the development and testing phases, so you can't yet get your insulin dose from the supermarket yet. This doesn't mean you should avoid lettuce, however, since this leafy green vegetable is a great way to get the vitamins, minerals and fiber your body needs while preventing an excessive blood sugar response.
Diabetes
Diabetes develops when a person has too much glucose in the bloodstream, typically as a result of either a decreased ability to produce insulin or a decreased ability to use existing insulin. People with diabetes have to monitor the foods they eat and avoid meals that will raise blood sugar too high or too quickly. If left untreated, diabetics can develop a wide range of dangerous conditions. Long-term complications of diabetes include nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, kidney damage and problems with the eyes, brain, feet and skin. Some people with diabetes need insulin injections to control their blood glucose.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a naturally healthy food that can be safely included in any diabetic's diet. Lettuce is low in calories, with 10 calories or fewer per cup, depending on the specific variety. Lettuce provides dietary fiber that helps mitigate blood sugar responses, so adding lettuce to a carbohydrate-containing meal can help prevent a large blood sugar spike. Lettuce contains vitamins A, K, B-6 and C, iron, folate, thiamine, potassium and manganese.
Genetically Modified Lettuce
The "Journal of Young Investigators" reported in August 2007 that scientists from the University of Central Florida developed a breed of genetically modified lettuce that could serve as a treatment for insulin dependent diabetes, the type that normally requires periodic shots of insulin. In mice, the lettuce was shown to cure diabetes and human clinical trials are currently underway. The special lettuce produces insulin that is contained in chloroplast cells of the plant, which are not destroyed by stomach acid. Naturally-occurring bacteria in the intestines help release the insulin, which then travels into the bloodstream.
Considerations
While waiting for the completion of human trials involving insulin-containing lettuce, adding a salad or a handful of lettuce leaves to your daily diet can be a good way to include extra vitamins and minerals in your diabetic diet. Romaine lettuce and other dark-hued lettuces tend to have more nutrients than iceberg lettuce, but none of the lettuce varieties are unhealthy, so it's fine if you prefer a particular variety. Other leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and arugula, are also healthy options for diabetics to include in a balanced meal plan.
