High blood sugar can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, but incorporating certain foods into your diet may help reduce your risk. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body struggles with insulin, causing elevated blood sugar levels. Symptoms include intense thirst and hunger, vision problems, and slow wound healing.
The NHS notes these symptoms can develop gradually. If you receive a prediabetes or type 2 diabetes diagnosis, managing your health is crucial. Without proper dietary control, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, leading to coronary heart disease and increasing the risk of stroke, according to Surrey Live.
The NHS advises, 'You can lower your chances of complications by managing your blood glucose as well as you can.' One way is to eat more pulses, says Diabetes UK. The charity explains, 'All carbs affect blood glucose levels, so choose healthier carbs and watch portion sizes.'
Pulses such as chickpeas, beans, and lentils are healthy carbohydrate options. They can help lower high blood sugar, but a balanced diet is also essential. This includes fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocado, and oily fish. Avoid unhealthy foods such as red and processed meat, ghee, butter, lard, biscuits, cakes, pies, pastries, pre-packaged foods, sugary items, crisps, chips, and chocolates. Limit alcohol and stay physically active.
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly for everyone. Diabetes UK adds, 'Being more physically active goes hand in hand with eating healthier. It can help manage diabetes and reduce heart problem risk.'
