Archive for April, 2006

Three Ways to Increase Insulin Sensitivity and Reduce Blood Sugars

Both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes control can be improved through changes to diet. In the most recent addition of Diabetes Care, several researchers discuss various ways to improve diabetes health. Here are three things that you can do to improve your health that have been reconfirmed by recent studies:

1. Increase Consumption of Insoluble Fiber


Consuming oats and other insoluble fiber can promote the body’s insulin sensitivity. Therefore, eating more insoluble fiber can reduce the need for insulin for people with Type 1 Diabetes and lower the blood sugars of people with Type 2. The study states that eating fiber for just three days begins the process.

2. Reduce Saturated Fat in Diet


Most Americans eat far more saturated fat than is typically recommended. Some nutritionists suggest that we should about 10 to 15 grams of saturated fat a day. One King Size Snickers, for example, has about 8 grams of saturated fat. Many processed foods have a great deal of saturated fat (as a percent of total fat) and partially hydrogenated oils. For me, keeping saturated fats low can most easily be done by eating more fruits, vegetables, and other unrefined foods.

3. Drink Alcohol in Moderation


I always have a hard time suggesting this because it is so often used in excess. Nevertheless, another study confirmed that alcohol consumption improves people’s health. It does not necessarily need to be wine: beer and unsweetened liquor can also have the same impact. What’s more, almost every study shows that consuming alcohol in any almost any quantity is better for blood sugar control than none.

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