Natural Foods That Control Diabetes

Diabetes has no known cure, but there are many ways to control the disease and prevent the symptoms from interfering with daily life. One major way to help control diabetes is through a healthy diet. It is common knowledge that diabetics need to be careful around sugar and carbs, but what foods will actually help control the disease? Here are some natural dietary supplements that control diabetes.

Bitter Melon

Bitter melon can do wonders for your metabolism. You can make your own juice from melons at the supermarket, or buy bitter melon juice at Asian food markets. Bitter melon is actually a type of squash, and it is usually found in Asia. It is also known as bitter gourd or bitter squash. The flesh is rather bitter (hence the name), so it is good to mix in other fruits to make a smoothie or maybe add some low-sugar dressing to the juice. It can also be served with yogurt, or even curried.
For more bitter melon recipes, click here.

Oatmeal

Unsweetened oatmeal, although it is a carbohydrate, can help control blood sugar. It is slower to digest than simple white bread and is high in soluble fiber. Due to the slower digestion rate, oatmeal is a steadier source of energy than bread and can help us feel full longer. It is a great addition to the diet of anyone looking to lose weight, which is a major factor for controlling diabetes. Barley has the same benefits as oats and can be paired with a more savory dish. Whole grains are a great choice for diabetics.

Strawberries

If you crave something sweet, strawberries are a perfect snack. A cup of strawberries will not alter blood sugar and is a much better option than a cookie or candy bar. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, and chock full of fiber and water. Like oatmeal, strawberries (and most other berries) will keep you feeling full longer.

Sparkling Water With Lemon Juice

Soda is one of the worst things for a person with diabetes (and anyone else, for that matter). Sugary sodas put insulin levels in the danger zone, and even sugar-free sodas have been shown to alter metabolism in a negative way. Sugar-free sparkling waters are a great replacement if you crave something sweet and fizzy. For a bit of extra flavor, try adding lemon juice, or a sweeter fruit juice like strawberry or pineapple juice (with no added sugar). Some sparkling waters are pre-flavored and low in calories.

Cinnamon

Ever heard of the cinnamon challenge? We don’t advise that you try it, but adding a bit of cinnamon to your diet can help reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Research has proven that cinnamon extract is especially beneficial for patients who have trouble controlling blood sugar. There has been little research on the benefits of cinnamon, but many doctors recommend you sprinkle a little bit onto your cereal.

Vinegar

If you accidentally over-indulged in carbohydrates during a meal, there is evidence that vinegar may lower your blood sugar levels back to a relatively safe area. The acids in vinegar slow down gastric emptying, which means a slower absorption of nutrients and a slower rise in blood sugar levels.

Coffee

While you should keep your coffee intake at two cups or less per day, there is evidence that people who drink coffee regularly are 34% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-coffee drinkers. However, too much coffee has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. As long as you keep it controlled, a bit of coffee every day is a good thing.

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