Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which insulin is not properly used; it affects17 million Americans. The healthcare costs have skyrocketed with 30 million doctors' visits per year from 2000 to 2010. Prevention can play a huge role in controlling diabetes. You can improve your diabetes and in the case of some type 2 diabetics, reverse it with attention toward diet, exercise and medications. It is essential to support the body chemistry with optimal food choices to reduce the risks involved with diabetes.
Opt for Good Fats
Fats play a major role in maintaining health. They restore tissues and send nutrients toward the nervous system and also provide energy. Animal proteins, high in saturated fats, can lead to elevated cholesterol. It is best for a diabetic to consume omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and certain plants. The omega-3 fatty acids clean the circulatory system of fat deposits. They reduce clotting and lower blood pressure. Insulin function relies on good fats. Olive oil, which consists of monounsaturated fats, improves insulin sensitivity. If eating fish twice a week is a challenge, choose a pharmaceutical grade fish oil supplement free of heavy metals and harmful environmental compounds. According to Michael Murray, N. D., author of "How to Prevent and Treat Diabetes with Natural Medicine," opt for macadamia nut oil which contains more than 4.5 times the amount of vitamin E than olive oil. Seeds offer a full range of amino acids, regulate blood sugar and activate fat to burn efficiently.
Focus on Colorful Food
The diabetic must receive the entire spectrum of antioxidants and phytochemicals to fight off disease. According to the "Oxford Journals: Diabetes Mellitus and Serum Carotoids," the pigments in colorful food, especially the carotenes, offers protection against diabetes. Carotenes are found in red and yellow fruits and vegetables. A sub group of carotenes is flavonoids, which contain medicinal properties and also add color to vegetables and fruits. Molecules found in flavonoids form a group called procyanidins. They help protect against free radicals that cause damage to insulin producing cells. Seven to nine servings of fruits and vegetables a day are ideal.
Add Supplements
The "University of Maryland Medical Center: Alternative Medical Guide" recommends taking a quality multivitamin that will boost immunity for the diabetic and also reduce the risks of infections. Look for Biotin, a B vitamin added to a multivitamin that enhances insulin function. Fiber supplements control blood sugar and can help reduce caloric intake. You should consume 30g of fiber daily. Start out with small amounts, then gradually add more per day to allow the body to adjust. In the May/June 2008 issue of "Well Being Journal: How Diabetics Can Live Longer and Healthier," Shane Ellison, M. Sc., writes that banaba extract obtained from the banaba tree contains plant insulin known as corosolic acid and is an effective treatment for diabetes.
Nutritious Carbohydrates
Nutritious carbohydrates have plenty of fiber and vitamins, minerals and nutrients that break down sugar gradually, according to author Michael Murray, of "How to Prevent and Treat Diabetes with Natural Medicine." Opt for brown rice or whole grain bread or other complex carbohydrates to ensure blood sugar stabilization. Processed food usually has added sugar, which spikes blood sugar eventually causing insulin resistance. Check labels when shopping for grains to identify the amount of sugar in the food item. Choose bread with at least 3g of fiber per slice.
Recommendations
Paying attention to nutritious carbohydrates, essential fats and quality vitamins are all great allies for managing the disease.
Diabetics must be under supervision with all aspects of treatment.
It is always wise to communicate with a health practitioner concerning diabetes issues. Diabetes is disease with many layers and all angles must be approached when working with the disease.
References
- "How to Prevent and Treat Diabetes with Natural Medicine; Michael Murray, N. D.; 2003
- "Well Being Journal"; How Diabetics can Live Longer and Healthier; Shane Ellison, M. Sc.; May/June 2008
- "Oxford Journal": Diabetes Mellitus and Serum Carotoids
- "University of Maryland Medical Center": Alternative Medicine Guide
