Major Ways To Fight Diabetes

Diabetes is a significant health problem for many adults. In fact, over twenty million Americans are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes currently, and approximately one million new cases are diagnosed each year. Diabetes is one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. It is also linked with other serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and various forms of cancer. The good news is there are countless ways patients can manage diabetes, from simple lifestyle changes to medical treatment options.

Get familiar with some of the effective methods of dealing with diabetes now.

Limit Sugar And Starch

The elimination of dietary carbohydrates is not strictly necessary for a diabetes patient to do to effectively manage their condition. However, patients should limit their consumption of unhealthy types of carbohydrates including sugar and starch. Starch is broken down to sugar in the body, which contributes to increased blood glucose. Candy and sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soda, are common sources of dietary sugar. Crackers, cookies, cakes, tortillas, pastries, bread, pasta, rice, and starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn, et cetera) are sources of starch, and these all contribute to high blood glucose if eaten in excess. Diabetes patients will want to read nutrition labels for exact information on sugar and starch in packaged goods, and transition their diet accordingly.

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Eat More Plants

Plants and whole grains are sources of healthy carbohydrates. These are filling and harder to consume in excess. Individuals with diabetes, therefore, should replace sugary cereals with whole grain varieties, and eat at least four vegetables a day, not including starchy potatoes and corn. They should also eat whole fruit instead of fruit-flavored foods.

The fiber content of packaged foods is listed on the nutrition facts label, which everyone should read before buying a product, whether they have diabetes or not. High fiber foods contain at least four grams of fiber per serving. To increase fiber and decrease starch content in meals, individuals should replace half of the rice or pasta they consume with vegetables. They should focus on substituting starchy foods with high-fiber vegetables. String zucchini makes a great substitute for spaghetti noodles.

Keep reading to reveal more ways to treat diabetes now.