If you are concerned about keeping glucose levels stable due to being diabetic or pre-diabetic, there are foods you can eat that will help you to manage your blood sugar and avoid the highs and lows experienced by eating too much sugar. Getting to know the glucemic index (GI) and which foods are lower on its table can make life easier and healthier. They glycemic index rates each food and its relationship to how it impacts blood sugar when eaten. Each food is then given a number and those numbers under 70 are generally the safest foods to eat if you're working on keeping glucose levels stable. There is a large variety of food available in the lower range on the GI including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vegetables, herbs and spices.
Cherries
The Fat Free Kitchen reports that cherries are high in antioxidants and potassium, as well as soluble fiber, which makes them excellent for helping to raise insulin. You can drink cherry juice in place of cherries themselves, with similar effect, according to Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, in his book "Alkalize or Die."
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are low on the glycemic index, providing a good source of soluble fiber. Because they raise blood glucose levels very slowly, they satisfy hunger and prevent insulin levels from spiking, according to The Fat Free Kitchen.
Flaxseed
Like nuts, flaxseed is high in fiber and fats and plays an important role in helping to manage blood sugar levels. In particular, flaxseed is high in omega-3 and 6-fatty acids, whose nutrients have many medicinal uses.
Nuts
Nuts help to control insulin resistance and are high in fats and fiber, protecting the body against diabetes, according to The Fat Free Kitchen.
Acidic Foods
Both lemons and apple cider vinegar (ACV) are useful in controlling blood sugar according to Mendosa.com. Both are acids, capable of lowering the glycemic index of carbohydrates, when consumed in the same meal with either lemon juice or ACV.
Cinnamon
The Fat Free Kitchen mentions that cinnamon helps to lower bad cholesterol, and has an affect on the blood sugar, similar to that of insulin, making it a valuable tool in managing diabetes.
References
- Mendosa.com: Another Way to Control Blood Glucose
- "Alkalize or Die;" Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 1991
- The Fat Free Kitchen.com: Foods that Lower Blood Sugar
