Foods to Control Sugar: Your Complete Guide

Well Being
Por: Marcela
24/04/24

Transform your health: discover the essential foods to control sugar.

Ad

Have you ever worried about high blood sugar levels? So know that you are not alone! Control sugar is essential for a healthy life, and the good news is that diet plays a key role in this process.

With the right food choices, you can control sugar is prevent complications related to diabetes and other health conditions.

Ad

From natural options rich in fiber until foods with a low glycemic index, you will find in this guide a variety of delicious and healthy choices. So let’s explore these foods together and learn how to incorporate them into your daily diet to promote a better quality of life. Follow along!

The importance of a healthy diet

Surely you have heard someone say: “we are what we eat”. The food you eat every day really makes all the difference. Healthy eating is not just about eating vegetables and fruits, but also about giving your body the nutrients it needs to stay strong and energized.

Ad

Furthermore, a healthy diet helps prevent diseases, strengthens the immune system and even improves mood. So the next time you’re choosing what to eat, remember the power your food has to transform your body and mind for the better!

And to give you a helping hand, I made a list of some of the main foods that will help you control sugar, without sacrifices!

Foods to Control Blood Sugar

  1. Vegetables with fewer carbohydrates: This type of vegetables are rich in fiber and nutrients, in addition to having a low glycemic index. Include a variety of vegetables in your main meals, such as spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, carrots and zucchini.
  2. Whole grains: Choose whole grains such as oats, quinoa, barley and brown rice, as they are rich in fiber and help control sugar.
  3. Lean proteins: Protein sources help maintain satiety and prevent blood sugar spikes, such as chicken breast, fish, eggs, tofu and lentils.
  4. Healthy fats: Choose healthy fats, such as avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil and coconut oil, as they help slow the absorption of sugar into the blood and keep you feeling fuller for longer.
  5. Fruits with a low glycemic index: Prefer fresh fruits with a low sugar content, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, apples and pears. Avoid very sweet fruits or concentrated juices.
  6. Cinnamon: This natural spice can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. A great option is to add a little ground cinnamon to your cereals, yogurts or teas.
  7. Apple vinegar: Recent studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may help reduce blood sugar levels after meals. Add some apple cider vinegar to your salads.
  8. Green Tea: This healthy drink is rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds that can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.
  9. Balsamic vinegar: Like apple cider vinegar, this can help reduce blood sugar levels after meals. It can be used in salad dressings or as a marinade for lean meats.
  10. Unsweetened Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and can help control sugar. Choose those without added sugar.
  11. Salmon and other fatty fish: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
  12. Lemon: Lemon juice is an excellent source of vitamin C and can help reduce blood sugar spikes when added to foods like salads or steamed vegetables. Furthermore, it gives a special touch to many dishes.
  13. Oat bran: Oat bran is an excellent source of soluble fiber. Add a tablespoon of oat bran to your cereal, yogurt or fruit.
  14. Beans: Rich in fiber and protein, they help keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.

Foods to avoid

Just as certain foods can be beneficial for controlling blood sugar, there are some that are worth avoiding or consumed in moderation, to keep glucose levels under control. See what they are:

  • Sugary drinks;
  • Highly processed foods;
  • Refined carbohydrates;
  • Dried fruits and concentrated fruit juices;
  • Foods rich in saturated and trans fats;
  • Snacks and “diet” or “light” processed foods;
  • Sweets, cakes and sugary desserts;
  • White breads;
  • Sugary cereals;
  • French fries and snacks;
  • Processed meats, such as sausages and bacon;
  • Sweet sauces and condiments;
  • Fast food products.

Example menu for diabetics

Remember that I said at the beginning of the text that to control blood sugar you don’t need to make big sacrifices? Well done! I prepared a delicious menu that you can easily include in your daily routine. Check out!

Breakfast

Egg white omelet with vegetables (such as spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms)
Avocado slices
1 slice of wholemeal bread
Green tea or unsweetened coffee

Morning snack

1 small apple
10 unsalted almonds or walnuts

Lunch

Grilled chicken
Green salad with vegetables like lettuce, cucumber, peppers
Cooked quinoa
1 glass of water with lemon

Afternoon snack

1 natural Greek yogurt without added sugar
1/2 cup fresh blueberries or strawberries

Dinner

Baked salmon with lemon and herb sauce
Grilled asparagus
Integral rice
1 cup unsweetened herbal tea

Final considerations

By adopting a mindful lifestyle and making healthy food choices, you are investing in your well-being in a meaningful way.

Controlling your blood sugar is not only possible, but also delicious and satisfying when you learn to incorporate the right foods into your daily diet. Small changes can have a big impact on your long-term health.

And remember, if you have any questions, consult your doctor.

Posted and reviewed Marcela Well Being on 24/04/24
You may also like
First Pregnancy Symptoms: What to Look for in the First Days First Pregnancy Symptoms: What to Look for in the First Days

Recognizing the first pregnancy symptoms is essential for those eagerly awaiting this new phase of life. Ad […]

More