If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to manage your blood sugar levels to prevent complications. One way to do this is by focusing on a diet that can help lower your A1C levels. A1C is a measure of average blood glucose over a three-month period, and maintaining a healthy level can reduce the risk of long-term damage to your body.
All things considered, the best way to manage your blood sugar, without being too restrictive, is to honor your cravings in a healthy and balanced way. One of the easiest ways to do that is by incorporating healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods into your regular mealtime rotation. Here are eight of the best healthy comfort foods to eat, according to this dietitian. The authors of a 2021 review looked at the effect of millets, which have a low GI score.
Salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which may help lower A1C levels. These healthy fats may help to lower inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. This category includes foods high in added sugars, refined grains, unhealthy fats, preservatives, and salt.
When they become impaired by alcohol intake, the body might not respond as effectively to changes in blood pressure, leading to persistent high blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, your doctor may have advised you to drink alcohol in moderation and cut back on your overall alcohol intake. That said, there’s no single prescribed diet that will reverse prediabetes, so you can try to adopt overall healthier eating habits or experiment with specific diets.
High fiber foods, particularly choices high in soluble fiber, are also linked to improved A1c levels. The soluble fiber found in oats, legumes, barley and many fruits and vegetables forms a gel in the gut and slows the release of glucose into the bloodstream. Legumes are high in fiber and plant protein, which can delay stomach emptying and slow the release of sugar from the gut. These blood sugar-friendly foods also contain resistant starch — meaning some of the carbohydrate resists digestion — which helps explain the blunted blood sugar rise after meals. The majority of foods aside from lean proteins feature a few sugar. Handling sugar consumption and keeping up a healthy diet regime is critical to lowering A1C levels.
A high intake of fatty fish such as salmon and sardines has been shown to help improve blood sugar regulation. Low blood glucose or Low blood sugar and High blood glucose can create a lot of Diabetes complications for Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. This list of Foods to lower a1c must have helped you I guess if you have any inputs you can let me know in the comments below.
Try this Cauliflower Mac & Cheese recipe the next time you want to cozy up with a big bowl of cheesy pasta goodness. If you need flavor, squeeze in some lemon or add a little fruit juice to carbonated water. There has been a great deal of research published looking to decipher the best proportion of macronutrients per individual. What’s been found is that it all comes down to balance and sustainability—and what’s sustainable for one person may not be sustainable for another.
Foods to Include in Your Diet
1. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in nutrients and low in calories. They are also high in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
2. Whole Grains
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats are good sources of complex carbohydrates and fiber. They can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
3. Lean Protein
Lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and tofu can help you feel full and satisfied without causing spikes in blood sugar levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still eat fruit?
A: Yes, but opt for fruits that are lower in sugar such as berries, apples, and citrus fruits.
Q: Are there any foods I should avoid?
A: Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fats to help lower your A1C levels.
By incorporating these foods into your diet and making healthy choices, you can effectively lower your A1C levels and better manage your diabetes.