There are a few ways to lower blood sugar and control diabetes, but the main treatments consist of diet, exercise, and possibly medication. Fortunately, many diabetics find themselves able to lower and control their diabetes by simply consuming diabetic healthy food.
The first and most important change in diet is to rid one’s self of foods that contain simple sugars. This may seem daunting for those who enjoy desserts, cookies, candies, and sweetened beverages. However, one does not have to give up sweet tastes if one chooses a good sugar substitute. Stevia is one option for sweetening food and drinks. Unlike substitutes containing chemicals like aspartame, stevia is a natural sweetener without an aftertaste. If you cannot abide the idea of black tea or coffee, try substituting the sugar with stevia. It is easy to become used to the flavor and unlike sugar, it will not affect blood sugars. If you must have soda, choose those that use a sugar substitute.
It is not necessary to give up carbohydrates if one is diabetic. Foods that are high in fiber and low in net carbohydrates should be eaten in moderate amounts. Foods with a high amount of fiber help to keep sugar levels steady and when eaten along with low-fat proteins, can also keep one feeling full and reduce cravings for sugars. Some good examples of high-fiber foods include oatmeal, multigrain breads, and fresh vegetables.
It may be surprising to hear that high fat foods can raise blood sugar levels. For this reason, a diet that is low in fat is recommended. Low fat meats are a good choice. There is a difference between healthy and unhealthy fats. Moderate amounts of healthy fats are not only good for controlling diabetes, but excellent for a person’s overall health. Some foods containing healthy fats are avocados, nuts, and fish.
There is an easy way to figure out the correct portion sizes without constant measuring. The plate method is used by many diabetics as a means of portion and sugar control. This method consists of dividing up your plate in one half and two quarters. Fill half of a plate with vegetables, such as salad, one quarter of your plate with protein, and the other quarter with a high-fiber food.
The best means of controlling diabetes is to concentrate on diet and exercise. Consistent walking, jogging, or other cardiovascular exercise burns calories and lowers the level of sugar in the blood, but can only work at its best when combined with a food program filled with diabetic healthy food.