As we have discussed in the previous blogpost, diabetes is a chronic health condition that occurs when our body is unable to process blood glucose.
The development of diabetes is complex. While statistics from the American Diabetes Association [P1] suggest that the probability of one developing diabetes increases if he/she has a parent or sibling with diabetes, how genetics may come into play in the development of diabetes still remains ill-understood. (ADA, 2017).
What we are sure of, the same study done by the American Diabetes Association has found that several gene mutations are closely associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. The delicate interplay of gene mutations and other environmental factors can ultimately result in the progressive loss in function and/or mass of the pancreas, hence manifesting as clinical symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels).
‘’We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the game.’’ – Randy Pausch
Since our genetic differences are way beyond our control, the next best solution that we could suggest would probably be to target the ‘environmental factors’! And what better way to kickstart our diabetes management journey than to cultivate a conscious, diabetic-friendly diet?
Not sure where to start? We will be sharing some common diabetic-friendly AND YUMMY ingredients that you may incorporate into your daily meals without much hassle:
Beans: High in soluble fiber, beans significantly lower blood sugar levels along with triglycerides and cholesterol. Since diabetic patients are more susceptible to cardiovascular complications, food that fight heart disease is also great for diabetes!
Curry Spice: Curcumin is a substance found in the spice turmeric, giving curry its appetizing golden orange-brown color. A new study [P2] conducted on prediabetic patients found that none of the participants who took capsules of curcumin for 9 months developed diabetes. This is in contrast with the 16.4% of participants who received a placebo that developed type 2 diabetes during the study period. While the exact mechanism of this result remains unknown, researchers speculate that it may be the weight loss that had reduced insulin resistance. Additionally, curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory properties which may have played a role as well. (Chuengsamarn, S. et al, 2012).
Low-carb vegetables ie. Broccoli: Filling your tummy up with vegetables can never go wrong! In fact, it is a great way to keep your blood sugar level in balance as they are low in calories and carbohydrates. At the same time, you are still getting the nutrition – vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your body requires! Additionally, the fiber-rich property of green, leafy vegetables may even help in the absorption of sugar in right place.
Four studies done during the 1980s cited by Dr. Richard A. Anderson, Ph.D., at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research, showed that chromium improved glucose tolerance. [P3] The exact mechanism seemed to be unclear, but Dr. Anderson noted that in test-tube experiments, chromium appeared to increase insulin’s efficiency in oxidizing glucose. (Madhi, G.S., 1991). On this note, we’ve got some good news! Broccoli is an excellent source of chromium – a trace mineral that can help regulate blood sugar, often reducing medication and insulin needs.
Loaded with antioxidants, broccoli is also a good source of vitamin A and C. These two nutrients are essential for anyone, regardless of diabetes diagnosis!
Last but definitely not least, how could we forget about W0W®️ noodles? The ONLY functional food with 0 blood sugar spike, while still meeting your nutritional needs. Needless to say, this ultimately gives more allowance for indulgence in other sides and condiments in your diet! Simply dish up a meal with any of the above 3 ingredients alongside our W0W®️ noodles to get a guilt-free TREAT!
That’s all for today’s post. Remember: Conscious dieting should not be a choice; it is a lifestyle. Do feel free to leave us comments and feedbacks in the comment box down below, we welcome ALL OF YOU. We want to hear you!
References:
[P1]https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/41/Supplement_1/S13/30088/2-Classification-and-Diagnosis-of-Diabetes [P2]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22773702/ [P3]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1872594/