Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases that all share one common trait: high blood sugar levels that, if left untreated, can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney failure, ulcers, and eye damage. There are two major types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, which emerges when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, and type 2 diabetes, which occurs when cells fail to react to insulin properly.
Managing diabetes can be a real challenge. But there are a number of foods that can play a central role in helping diabetes patients keep their condition in check…
1. Apples
We’ve all heard the saying: An apple a day will keep the doctor away. That idea is particularly accurate when you’re talking about diabetes, because apples are high in fiber (meaning they’ll keep you feeling full), low in calories, help in the fight against LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and contain enough natural sugars to keep your blood sugar levels in check.
Keep in mind that fresh apples are your best choice—stay away from canned apples that come laced with added sugars. Diabetes patients should also be wary of apple juice that contains extra sugar.
