Type 2 diabetes is a condition that causes the body to lose control of the amount of sugar in the blood. The body doesn’t response to insulin properly, and may not produce enough, and then causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. If type 2 diabetes is left untreated it can lead to kidney failure, never damage, heart disease and stroke. But blood sugar levels can be controlled through some simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet.
Research published earlier this year found one of the most crucial factors in preventing type 2 diabetes and bring blood sugars back into a healthier range comes down to eating a plant-based diet
Experts say there’s nothing you cannot eat if you have type 2 diabetes, and you should eat a wide range of foods including fruit, vegetables and some starchy foods like pasta.
But sugar, fat and salt should be kept to a minimum.
While there’s many diets considered healthy, which one is considered best for controlling blood sugar levels?
Research published earlier this year found one of the most crucial factors in preventing type 2 diabetes and bring blood sugars back into a healthier range comes down to eating a plant-based diet.
The report explained: “Plant-based dietary patterns, especially when they are enriched with healthful plant-based foods, may be beneficial for the primary prevention of type 2 diabetes.”
Plant-based is a term commonly used to imply veganisim.
But in the context of the report, a plant-based diet still includes some animal protein and carbohydrates.
While plant-based foods have been shown to have a positive impact on blood sugar levels, the research suggested the impact is actually broader.
The researchers noted: “Plant-based diets may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes through lowering the risk of excess weight gain.
“Multiple interventional and observational studies have indicated that increased consumption of plant-based foods can lead to short-term weight loss or prevention of long-term weight gain.
“In turn, it is likely that a considerable proportion of the protective association between plant-based diets and risk of type 2 diabetes can be attributable to weight control.”
The NHS also explains the importance of losing weight for lowering blood sugar levels.
It states: “Losing weight (if you’re overweight) will make it easier for your body to lower your blood sugar level, and can improve your blood pressure and cholesterol.
“To know whether you’re overweight, work out your body mass index (BMI).
“If you need to lose weight, try to do it slowly over time. Aim for around 0.5 to 1kg a week.”
Alongside eating a healthy diet to lose weight and control blood sugar levels, regular exercise is also recommended.
You should aim to do 2.5 hours of activity a week – this can include fast walking, climbing stairs and doing more strenuous housework or gardening.
When it comes to the best drinks for blood sugar levels, three have been found to be beneficial.
Source: Read Full Article