Diabetes: An Overview of Prevention and Treatment
Introduction
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, which is caused by insulin deficiency or resistance. According to the latest statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 400 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes, and it is the seventh leading cause of death on the planet. Therefore, it is essential for us to understand how to prevent and treat diabetes effectively. This article will focus on the role of a healthy diet, particularly low-fat, low-salt, and high-fiber foods, in preventing diabetes.
What is dietary fiber?
Dietary fiber, also known as dietary fiber, is an important component of our daily food intake. Unlike proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, fiber cannot be digested by the human body, so it does not provide any calories for us. However, dietary fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining our health, especially in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
Firstly, dietary fiber can significantly reduce blood glucose levels. According to clinical studies, when people with type 2 diabetes consume high-fiber foods, their fasting blood sugar levels can be reduced by about 10-20%, which is equivalent to half a unit of insulin or two units of oral hypoglycemic drugs. Secondly, dietary fiber can help regulate the absorption of dietary carbohydrates in the intestines, thus effectively controlling blood glucose fluctuations and reducing the incidence of diabetes complications.
In order to ensure the intake of enough dietary fiber, we should adhere to the following principles in our daily diet:
1. Low-fat diet: Excessive fat intake is a critical risk factor for the development and progression of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is necessary to limit the intake of high-fat foods such as fried food, greasy meat, and cream in our daily diet.
2. Low-salt diet: High salt intake can cause blood vessels to become narrowed and lead to hypertension, which is another risk factor for diabetes. Limiting the daily intake of salt to about 5-6 grams can effectively prevent and control diabetes.
3. High-fiber diet: Foods rich in dietary fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. These foods can be integrated into a diversified diet, ensuring ample fiber intake. For example:
– Apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries, blueberries… These fruits are not only high in dietary fiber but also contain various vitamins and minerals that help improve insulin sensitivity.
– Spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes… These vegetables have high water content, rich fiber, and low calories, making them ideal choices for people with diabetes.
– Brown rice, quinoa, oats, buckwheat… Whole grains can provide enough dietary fiber to slow down the absorption of sugar, thus effectively controlling blood glucose levels.
– Beans, lentils, chickpeas… Legumes are high in protein and fiber. Consuming legumes regularly can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
Dietary fibers play a significant role in preventing diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels and slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates. For people with diabetes or those at risk, it is essential to maintain a low-fat, low-salt, and high-fiber diet. To facilitate this process, we can rely on the assistance provided by healthy food products like diabetes prevention items. By integrating such strategies into our daily lives, we can effectively control diabetes and improve our quality of life.
