WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a condition that impairs the body’s ability to process blood glucose. It is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to make insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas, that acts like a key to let glucose from the food we eat pass from the blood stream into the cells in the body to produce energy. All carbohydrate foods are broken down into glucose in the blood. Insulin helps glucose get into the cells and provides energy to the body.

SYMPTOMS

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Extreme hunger
Unexplained weight loss

WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?

~Type 1 Diabetes

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes type 1 diabetes. The immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas .Genes may play a role in some people. It’s also possible that a virus sets off the immune system attack.

~Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes stems from a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors. Being overweight or obese increases your risk too.Carrying extra weight, especially in your belly, makes your cells more resistant to the effects of insulin on your blood sugar.

~Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is the result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. The placenta produces hormones that make a pregnant woman’s cells less sensitive to the effects of insulin. This can cause high blood sugar during pregnancy.

HOW TO CONTROL DIABETES?

Exercise regularly
Regulate your carb intake
Increase your fiber intake
Stay hydrated
Control stress levels

FOOD THAT REGULATES DIABETES

Fatty fishes such as salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies and mackerel are great sources of the omega-3 fatty acids which have major benefits for a healthy heart. Getting enough of these fats on a regular basis is especially important for diabetics, who have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke .

Leafy green vegetables are extremely nutritious and low in calories .They're also very low in digestible carbs, which raise your blood sugar levels. Spinach, kale and other leafy greens are good sources of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, support digestion and lowers risk.

Turmeric is a spice with powerful health benefits.It's active ingredient, curcumin, can lower inflammation and blood sugar levels, while reducing heart diseases and kidney problems for those at risk. Curcumin improves insulin function. It reduces insulin resistance by helping it get into cells.

Greek yogurt is a great dairy choice for diabetics. Greek yogurt promotes healthy blood sugar levels, reduces risk factors for heart disease and may help with weight management. If you have diabetes, you would want to opt for plain, low-fat, or non-fat Greek yogurt that is high in protein and low in carbohydrate.

Olive oil is extremely beneficial for heart health. It contains oleic acid, a type of monounsaturated fat that has been shown to improve triglycerides and HDL, which are unhealthy levels in T2D diabetes, decreased risk to develop T2D as well as improved glucose metabolism and decrease in HbA1c.

Flaxseeds are an incredibly healthy food. A portion of their insoluble fiber is made up of lignans, which can decrease heart disease risk and improve blood sugar control.It's also important to keep flaxseeds tightly covered in the refrigerator to prevent them from going rancid.