Do you know that there are foods that are naturally good for you? I’m sure you’re already eating healthy meals filled with fish, leafy vegetables, and whole grains. With a healthy diet, you’ve already begun your journey to stable blood pressure, weight and blood sugar. They say that the first step is the most important one. Here’s a quick list of other foods you could add to your list. Nothing new. I’m sure you’ve already incorporated a few into your lifestyle.

1. Apples – You were taught that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Did they specify which doctor? The cardiologist. You’ve learned something new today. Apples are rich in pectin – a type of fiber that keeps (bad) cholesterol under control. They are rich in antioxidants too. Take a big crunchy bite once in a while and perhaps you’ll be around for a good, long time.

2. Asparagus – Perhaps this is one of the most underrated vegetables (after spinach). Just like similar-rated vegetables, it’s non-starchy having about 20 calories per serving. In addition to being great tasting, it’s packed with glutathione – an antioxidant. Many nutritionists swear that it helps in fighting age-related ailments such as heart disease and diabetes even though there’s no scientific evidence backing up these claims.

3. Oatmeal – I can’t think of a better way to kick-start your day than having a bowl of oatmeal with a generous chunk of banana toppings. It’s even better tasting than its unhealthy competitors (think sugary cereals, sweet rolls etc.) Oatmeal helps in stabilizing glucose levels. In its pure form, it may help diabetes patients reduce blood glucose spikes. However, there is a catch it’s unsuitable for diabetes patients with gastroparesis as it may cause bloating.

4. Spinach – It’s classified as a superfood for diabetes type 1 and type 2. It’s arguably the richest source of more than 20 distinct minerals including dietary fiber, manganese, and calcium. It’s ideal for weight management as it has an impressive calorie to nutrient ratio. However, it’s rich in Vitamin K that prevents blood thinning medications from working effectively. Talk to your doctor about dietary changes and how they affect your medicine, before making dietary changes.

5. Onions – What’s the effect or red onions on blood sugar? Most Diabetes type 2 related issues are tied to metabolism. Onions help in reducing inflammation and preventing cardiovascular ailments. They are linked to blood sugar in rather interesting ways. They’re prebiotics – foods rich in fibers that go through the upper digestive tract untouched and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

6. Nuts – Not all nuts are the same: Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, Walnuts contain omega 3 and cashew nuts have a high concentration of magnesium. Most nuts are beneficial to people with diabetes. However, they should not be salted. Excessive salt is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. The biggest advantage of including nuts in your diet is that they are highly effective at stabilizing cholesterol levels. Harmful cholesterol coats the inner walls of the arteries thinning them. The end result is increased blood pressure. In most cases, unprocessed foods are better. Incorporate whole grain cereals into your diet and you will see a bump in your overall health.
*The author of this blog is not a medical professional and this article does not contain professional medical advice. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of the contents of this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
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