In a world where the consumption of fast food is growing rapidly by the day, the need for health is at an all-time high. One of the most common diseases among Americans in almost any age group is diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease and it occurs when the pancreas is not able to produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot use the amount of insulin produced. There are talks of remission, but to cure it is unlikely because beta cells, which produce insulin, when damaged especially through genetics, make the body susceptible to disease again and again. But there are ways to fight against the worsening of diabetes. And the most effective way is through food intake.
- Beans
Both kidney beans and pinto beans are great for protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are beneficial in the sense that they improve blood sugar control and heart health. They also can lower risk of chronic disease.
And both navy and black beans are low in calories and are beneficial for weight loss. Navy beans provide a feeling of satiety, so people tend to eat less during the day. Black beans are rich in soluble fiber, which can aid in reducing belly fat.
- Leafy greens
Spinach has shown that it can decrease oxidative stress, improve eye health, and prevent heart disease and cancer.
Lettuce, having high levels of potassium can help maintain cardiovascular (overall heart) health. It is good for hydration, over 95% of raw lettuce is made up of water. Lettuce is also good for bone health.
Both collard greens and turnip greens protect against cancers. Turnip greens are rich in vitamin K, which is beneficial for bone metabolism and materialization. They also contain calcium, for blood coagulation. Collard greens are great for reducing belly fat and protect the brain from cognitive decline.
There are also things to avoid, though. If you are suffering from diabetes or any other disease, eating healthy is one step, but it also goes hand-in-hand with resisting unhealthy contents, such as:
- Sugar-packed drinks
These drinks are associated with weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney diseases, non-alcoholic liver disease, tooth decay and cavities, and gout, a type of arthritis.
- Candy
It is one of the leading causes of heart disease. Candy plays havoc with cholesterol levels and appetite control. And too much consumption of it can also make one depressed.
- Processed Meats
Processed meats increase risk of bowel and stomach cancer. They are the main culprit behind heart failure.
For more information on healthy ways to prevent worsening diabetes, go to mayoclinic.org
