If you struggle with diabetes or are prediabetic, you might be wondering if there are ways to stabilize or improve your condition. Diet can’t cure diabetes on its own, but it can help you keep it under control, and if you’re prediabetic, you could reverse it with diet.
Here are five smart eating habits to try:
1. Plan ahead: Make weekly meal plans and carry healthy snacks with you. It’s easier to eat well and avoid overindulging when you’re prepared.
2. Eat balanced plates: Include lean protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates in every meal. You’ll feel full longer and avoid the highs and lows that simple carbs can cause.
3. Fill up with fiber: It slows digestion and helps control blood sugar. Look for higher-fiber swaps and additions to make gradual changes. Maybe it’s homemade oatmeal with walnuts and blueberries, or whole wheat tacos with with chicken, lettuce, black beans and salsa. Experiment to find what you enjoy.
4. Pay attention to portions: Use smaller plates for meals and snacks. Put away the serving bowls and cereal boxes so you aren’t tempted to go back for seconds.
5. Stay consistent: Stick to consistent mealtimes and avoid skipping meals. Diabetic or not, no one enjoys being hangry. We all make better food choices and life choices when our blood sugar is stable.
Small, sustainable changes can make a big difference in managing diabetes and prediabetes. So can getting the medical care you need, so please reach out with any questions about your coverage.