So the huge buzz is how Paula Deen, a popular television chef, has shared that she was diagnosed with Type II diabetes nearly 3 years ago. You may be thinking, so what?! But the fact is that many are wondering why she shared this information and if she knew, why didn’t she change her recipes to reflect healthier portions or healthier ingredients. Her personal life is just that personal, but when she decided to share her disease with the world, then many start to wonder. With that said, she has made diabetes the topic of the day and many are searching for answers.
First off diabetes is a serious condition and should always be supervised by a qualified health care professional. The most common form of diabetes is Type II, also known as adult onset diabetes. This type is conventionally treated with drugs that stimulate the insulin production and controls blood sugar levels. There are mild cases of Type II diabetes and those can almost always be managed with diet and exercise.
Here are some actions that can be taken to monitor diabetes
Avoid Refined Sugars – removing refined sugars may sound difficult at first but it can be accomplished. Refined sugar and food products that are manufactured with white flour such as breads, pastries, cookies and pastas will put a strain on your organs and glands. Your organs and glands that are made to regulate the sugar levels in your body are stressed causing illness. To avoid this, it is advised to eat complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and fruits.
Consume Food to Stabilize Your Blood Sugar – eating high fiber foods such as lentils and black beans which contain soluble fiber can help in stabilizing or normalizing your blood sugar levels. Some other foods that can also help in normalizing your blood sugar levels are protein and healthful fats. Healthful fats are monounsaturated fats like extra virgin olive oil, raw nuts, and avocados. Another healthful fat is omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, cold-water fish, walnuts and flaxseed. Eating foods that contain protein and healthful fats at least twice daily will help in stabilizing your sugar levels.
Herbal Aid for Diabetes – there is an herb called gymnema that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat diabetes. Gymnema enhances the production of insulin and helps decrease the blood sugar levels. It is suggested to take this twice daily. **Caution: If you are taking other medications consult with your physician before taking gymnema.
Using Chromium – another option to control your blood sugar is using chromium. Chromium can help to control the levels of sugar and insulin in the bloodstream. The daily recommended amount is 200mcg of chromium supplement, three times a day with meals.
Daily Exercise - you can also control your blood sugar levels with regular exercise. Now you don’t have to go crazy and start pumping iron or prepare for a marathon, a 30-minute walk daily is sufficient. Daily exercise is one of the best ways to help your cells use glucose efficiently and keep your blood levels from rising to dangerous levels. Exercise also helps you lose weight so that your body can use insulin more effectively.
As always the mantra I share with many including patients and friends is moderation is the key. Adding or replacing certain foods into your daily diet will help as well as the tips shared above.
Share these tips with your friends and loved-ones and make them aware of the ways to monitor their sugar levels a natural way.
Dr. Daisy Sutherland is the Founder/CEO of Dr. Mommy Online. She is a doctor, author, radio personality, speaker, wife & mom to 5 children. Dr. Mommy's mission is to ~ Inspire, Motivate & Encourage you to be the best you can be by sharing her 'Get Real' approach to health and wellness.
Couldn’t agree more, Dr. Daisy. I too found out I have Type II Diabetes about 2 years ago. It is hard to understand why Paula Deen wouldn’t be modifying her show. She could help so many people with her visibility. I watch lots of shows on the Food Channel but don’t listen to her recipes for obvious reasons.
You are right on the mark with your suggestions. I have one to add. Consider adding Hemp Hearts to your diet – It’s great on top of cereal and yogurt or in soups .. It has a yummy nutty flavor and is full of Omega-3 and 6 oils. I even bake it into banana nut bread and such. There are so many benefits I would suggest your visitors read up on it. Thanks for such an important post!
Thanks so much for your suggestion Linda:) I wrote an entire article on the benefits of Hemp, may have to re-circulate that one soon as well… Have a beautiful day!:)
Thanks Daisy!!!! I needed this.. I had such a scare with my mother-in-law and her diabetes. I’ve been trying to help her keep it under control and to become educated as I have started to help with her health care. Great tips as always! Thanks!!!!