Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the level of glucose in the blood (which is the main source of energy in the body) increases significantly, it is obtained from food intake. The hormone “insulin”, which is made in the pancreas, helps to transfer glucose from food to the cells of the body; to use it and obtain energy, and sometimes the glucose remain in the blood and does not reach the cells; either because the body does not make enough insulin, or because it does not make it at all, or does not use it well, and over time it can cause high blood sugar and other health problems , And although diabetes can not be cured, there are some measures that can be taken to control the disease, and maintain the health.
There are many beneficial foods that help control the level of sugar in the blood and improve the body’s health, such as:
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Pumpkin For Diabetes
Pumpkins, such as zucchini, squash, or Italian pumpkin, contain antioxidants that help protect the eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration. Studies showed that squash reduces obesity and blood sugar level for people with type 2 diabetes.
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Garlic For Diabetes
Several studies have shown that eating garlic can reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes. Where a clove of garlic contains 4 calories, and grams of carbohydrates. A study also showed that eating garlic for 12 weeks reduced blood pressure for those with high blood pressure.
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Strawberries For Diabetes
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which makes them one of the adviced fruits for people who have diabetes as they help reduce the level of cholesterol and sugar in the blood. One cup of strawberries contains 49 calories, and 11 grams of carbohydrates.
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Broccoli For Diabetes
Broccoli is a good source of many nutrients, including vitamin C and magnesium. Studies also found that eating broccoli helps reduce sugar level in the blood, protect cells from free radical damage, and reduce eye diseases thanks to its antioxidants. Half a cup of cooked broccoli provides 27 calories, and 3 grams of carbohydrates.
Foods That Should Be Avoided Diabetics :
There are some foods that contribute to rising sugar levels in the blood, among which we mention the following:
- Canned fruits.
- Sweetened apples.
- Jam.
- Meat rich in fat.
- Regular cheeses.
- Fried fish.
- Whole milk.
- Full fat yogurt.
- Soft drinks.
- Sweetened tea.
- Coffee with sugar.
- Energy Drinks.
Herbs And Plants That Lowers Blood Sugar Level :
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Fenugreek For Diabetes
Many studies and experiments have demonstrated the benefits of fenugreek in general, some of these benefits are the fact that fenugreek have a clear effect on controlling blood sugar level for people with type 2 diabetes.
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Cinnamon For Diabetes
Half a teaspoon of cinnamon daily can improve blood sugar and cholesterol significantly, in addition to the level of triglycerides in the blood.
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Basil
Studies showed that basil increases insulin secretion, therefore, it has a significant effect on blood sugar level.