Diabetes, a chronic disease, is oftentimes caused by having very low levels of insulin and high amount of blood sugar. Insulin is a hormone that the pancreas produces and helps in the regulation of the blood sugar levels of the body, as well as in converting glucose into energy. Once there is absence or very little amount of insulin in the body, there is a high probability that the glucose will build up in the blood; hence, causing diabetes due to high levels of blood sugar.

There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes which is also called juvenile diabetes usually hits children. As a matter of fact, this is the second most chronic illness that happens to children. This occurs when the pancreas really stops producing insulin. Its symptoms are frequent urination, queasiness, excessive thirst and irritability, and fatigue. On the other hand, the Type 2 Diabetes is more common on adults, but is already starting to hit the children also. This happens when the pancreas does not work well, but the body is still able to make insulin. The symptoms are somehow similar to that of the type 1, but also include blurred vision and numbness in the hands and feet.

These two kinds of diabetes, however, may be prevented. Try these 8 superfoods to lessen your chances of being diabetic.

• Vegetables. Vegetables refer to the plants which were grown for the purpose of making it an edible herb. Given that they are a powerhouse of vitamins and nutrients which are very essential to the body, their ability to control various diseases like diabetes is unquestionable. Non-starchy and green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli, are very effective in controlling the occurrence of diabetes. These vegetables contain lots of fiber and very little amounts of calories. A new study has also proven that greens have a lot to do with a significant decrease in the risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes. Conversely, starchy vegetables may also be added in one’s diet to maintain balance in the nutrient intake. Starchy vegetables include potatoes, peas, and corn.

• Fruits. Fruits are edible plants, usually bearing seeds. Like vegetables, they are also full of vitamins and nutrients which are necessary for boosting the health of an individual. Diabetes is usually caused by too much intake of sweet foods; hence, consumption of fruits is known to be the best alternative for people who crave for sweets. Aside from being just an alternative for sweets, fruits also contain various nutrients which can help in combating the occurrence of diabetes. They contain fructose, which makes them taste sweet. Despite being a sugar, this fructose is beneficial to the body and is said to be way better than the table sugar known as sucrose. Fructose is gradually metabolized in the system and its low glycemic index enables it to become the better choice for people with diabetes.

• Beans. Beans are widely treated as vegetables. They are the pods of a plant that bears seeds. They provide protein and several vitamins and nutrients, and are low in fat; and, for that reason, they are known to be a good choice for everyone, most especially for people with diabetes since they also contain high amount of soluble fiber. Due to the high levels of soluble fiber present in beans, the carbohydrates in the blood stream are slowly broken down into sugar; protecting the individual from having high levels of blood sugar. Digestion is also delayed, which enables a person from eating more and consuming additional sugar. Moreover, the beans are effective in lowering the overall blood sugar levels.

• Fish. Fish is an excellent alternative for meats. Since meats contain high levels of fat, they are not advisable for diabetic patients; which is why fish is recommended to substitute such. Also, fish contains omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids enable the arteries to be cleared and to avoid blockages. Moreover, they reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. Aside from the omega-3 fatty acids and the high levels of fat, fish also contains protein which is very beneficial in fighting the happening of diabetes.

• Nuts. A study which involved approximately 117 people who were diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes has obtained positive results with regard to the decrease of blood sugar levels brought about by regular consumption of nuts. The researchers have come to a conclusion that raw, unsalted nuts are of big help in controlling the blood sugar, as well as the blood lipids. In addition, protein can be acquired from nuts; enabling the nuts to aid in improving the regulation of blood sugar levels. Moreover, nuts contain Vitamin E and certain antioxidants which cleanse the body and remove the toxins. However, one must put in mind that eating nuts should be done moderately since they are high in calories.

• Olive Oil. Olive oil is a kind of oil which was extracted from olives, and is commonly used from dressings. This oil is equipped with good fats that are helpful in stabilizing the blood sugar levels of the body and in reducing the risk of getting heart attacks. Moreover, these healthy fats are known to assist in lowering the body’s resistance to insulin. The monounsaturated fat present in olive oil is said to be the primary factor with regard to its ability to combat diabetes.

• Yogurt. Yogurt is a food which resembles custard, having the taste of a tart, and has been prepared out of milk curdled by Lactobacillus Bulgaricus. It has a sour taste that has been contradicted with the sweetness of the fruits present in it. Yogurt is offering a very essential mineral known as calcium which is necessary for weight loss and for lowering the probability of making an individual insulin-resistant. Moreover, it is a good source of protein which makes digestion smoother.

• Cinnamon. In the year 2003, a study was conducted in Pakistan which concerns the ability of cinnamon to control diabetes. It was proven that, indeed, cinnamon lowers the level of blood sugar and gets rid of bad cholesterol in the body. The effective usage of insulin is also assisted by the components of cinnamon.

Sources
rd.com
fyiliving.com
livestrong.com