Eating Right

Eating healthy involves eating natural foods. For diabetics, it is very important to incorporate those natural nutrients into the diet. This is because it can be very helpful in managing your blood glucose levels. Here are some foods that should be in your diet:
*Note: The following information is written by Dr Susan Jewell. I found it extremely helpful in planning meals, so I hope it will be the same for you.

Vegetables and Soy Protein: 

~ Provides body with essential minerals and nutrients to help manage and control blood sugar levels. 

~ Maintains proper bodily functions and biochemical reactions. 

~ Leafy, green vegetables (Ex: spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts) are excellent sources of potassium and magnesium, low in carbohydrate content, and have few calories. 
~ Soy plant products (tofu, soy milk, tempeh) are natural high grade proteins that can be easily absorbed into the body. 
~ Vegetables and some soy products have a low glycemic index, a beneficial health indicator for diabetes.

Magnesium:
~ Important for the regulation of insulin in the body and controlling blood sugar levels.
~ Diabetic patients should increase their daily intake of magnesium rich foods such as spinach, oats, cashews, whole grains, bananas and green leafy vegetables.

Fruits:~ Provides essential minerals for a healthy body and are low in calorie and carb content.
~ Cranberries, pomegranates, apples, citrus fruits, bananas, papayas, and oranges have high nutritional content and a low glycemic index.

Herbs and Spices:
~ Some possess anti-diabetic properties which can help to manage and reduce some of the symptoms of diabetes.
~ Herbs like garlic can lower blood sugar levels.
~ Cinnamon contains natural active ingredients with insulin-enhancing activities and antioxidant effects.
~ Tumeric and gooseberry can increase the activation of pancreatic cells to increase insulin production.

High Fiber Foods:
~ Can reduce the symptoms of diabetes because it can lower the requirement for insulin in the body and help create a slower release of glucose in the blood.
~ Foods rich in fiber include: chickpeas, oatmeal, beans, barley, and peas.
~ Natural fiber foods like corn and lentils can also help to reduce blood sugar levels.
~ High fiber foods contain chromium, which is important for vital biochemical reactions in the body.