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5 foods that lower and regulate blood sugar levels

5 foods that lower and regulate blood sugar levels

Diabetes is a condition generally caused by a lack of the hormone insulin in the body. The result is a hazardous accumulation of glucose in the blood. Although there are many factors that contribute to this condition, one way to regulate blood sugar is to follow a healthy nutrition regimen. In this article, we shall discuss five foods that can help lower blood sugar levels and keep diabetes in check:

Broccoli
Broccoli contains tons of nutrients and is an essential part of wholesome nutrition. This food is also great for lowering and regulating blood sugar. Chopped or chewed broccoli releases the compound sulforaphane that helps reduce and maintain the blood-sugar levels in the body. To efficiently obtain sulforaphane from broccoli, having it raw or steamed is ideal.

Whole wheat
Bread is typically filled with carbohydrates that can negatively affect the overall blood sugar level. But research has shown that stone-ground whole wheat bread actually scores very low in terms of the glycemic index. This low score is attributed to the fact that stone-ground whole wheat bread does not lose its essential fibers. These fibers help slow the process of digestion and, in turn, help to lower and regular blood sugar levels in the body.

Nuts
Nuts are perfect snacks; they’re healthy, contain tons of nutrients, are high in fiber, and have healthy fat. To top it off, they are also ideal for lowering or regulating blood sugar as they are low-glycemic foods. Nuts have a gradual impact on blood sugar, which makes them the right choice for diabetes patients. Nuts also contain vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids that help keep with heart health. Some popular nut choices include almonds, walnuts, and peanuts. Note that unprocessed nuts have a lower glycemic index compared to those that have toppings and coatings.

Oatmeal
Oatmeal is known to have high fiber content and a low glycemic index score, making it the recommended nutritional food for lowering blood sugar. Studies have also shown that oat and oat bran contain high soluble fiber content that has significant blood-sugar reducing properties. Oatmeal also contains B-glucans that can reduce glucose and insulin responses and improve insulin sensitivity.

Garlic
Garlic is another great food that is known for its numerous health benefits. One of these benefits is lowering and managing blood sugar levels in the body. In fact, studies have shown that garlic can help control blood sugar by raising the levels of insulin in the body. Garlic contains compounds such as allicin, allyl propyl disulfide, and S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide that help increase insulin sensitivity in the body. While eating raw garlic can be very difficult, individuals who suffer from conditions that affect their blood sugar levels can try to add this ingredient to their foods. Garlic can be chopped up or crushed before adding to meals. Individuals should check with their doctors before this addition as eating lots of garlic can contribute to heartburn, bad breath, and acidity.

Diabetes and kidney damage
Statistics show that 1 in 3 adults develop chronic kidney disease (CKD) triggered by either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The risk is high among diabetics. That is why regular kidney screening is recommended for high-risk patients. Doctors suggest KERENDIA® for diabetes CKD Type 2 treatment. This once-a-day prescription helps slow down the progression of kidney damage. Trials have indicated that KERENDIA® also lowers the chances of kidney failure.

People with diabetes mellitus may be at an increased risk of developing tardive dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder. For those suffering from TD, INGREZZA (valbenazine) is an excellent treatment option. It helps treat various TD symptoms by blocking certain chemicals that may affect involuntary muscle movement. INGREZZA comes in the form of capsules and is usually taken once a day. Some of the side effects include headache, dizziness, dry mouth, restlessness, constipation, and blurred vision.  

Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 is a continuous glucose monitoring system to manage Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Once inserted beneath the skin, the device measures blood glucose levels and sends the data wirelessly to a display device.

Roche Diabetes Care, Inc.
Roche makes Accu-Chek products that help people with diabetes. A few products from Roche’s Accu-Chek include lancing devices, insulin delivery systems, blood glucose meters, and digital solutions to manage data.

Toujeo
Toujeo is a long-acting type of insulin prescribed to people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Doctors may suggest an appropriate dosage for every individual to get blood sugar levels under control. Toujeo insulin may be used by itself or in combination with a fast-acting insulin. One may use Toujeo insulin discount cards like Toujeo Insulins Val you  Savings Card  to avail of discounts on the purchase.

Diabetes is a chronic disease and the source of various co-morbidities. While the condition is manageable, it can lead to unpredictable flare-ups. This is why life insurance and Medicare supplemental insurance are important for diabetics. John Hancock, Mutual of Omaha, AIG are some popular insurance providers for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.  One can opt for Medicare’s optional Advantage Plan, also referred to as Part C. The plan is offered by Medicare-approved private companies. The cost and rules are changeable for Part C, but it allows one to insure their standard diabetes expenses in addition to suitable fitness programs and doctor’s visits. Check out the website for more details on the coverage. 

UHC Medigap or Medical Care Supplement Insurance Plans can help people cover any predictable out-of-pocket costs, aiding better planning of healthcare expenses. Users can choose from various plans based on their health needs and goals to find the right fit.

People with diabetes can also opt for nutritional supplements to help manage blood sugar levels, and one of the top-rated supplements is GlucoTrust. The supplement promotes healthy blood flow, reduces cravings, and supports sleep. It is priced at about $60 and comes with a 180-day risk-free money-back guarantee. GlucoTrust capsules should be taken once a day before bedtime. Additionally, d iabetics are recommended to take vaccination shots as they are prone to developing serious illnesses. One of the popular vaccine brands is Novavax, which is currently researching a number of combination and single vaccinations to curb the effects of infectious diseases. It is safe for diabetes patients too. To help with their research purposes, individuals can join their clinical trials.

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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Essential foods that help with seizure management

The primary point of difference between a seizure and epilepsy is the frequency of episodes. If a person has a seizure attack, it may be a singular occurrence. However, when someone has epilepsy, the chances of multiple and frequent seizures are significantly higher. Depending on the type, severity of the condition/attacks, and frequency, treatments may include medications like XCOPRI®, therapies, and the following recommendations for eating habits. Carbohydrate-rich foods Healthy carbs are recommended as part of the Modified Atkins food regimen. It has fewer restrictions and features various vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains to manage one’s seizure outlook better. Popular choices include potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, peas, and winter squash, among fresh fruits and vegetables. Split peas, chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, and white beans are better legume choices. Additionally, whole grains like quinoa, oatmeal, brown rice, pasta, and even bread can meet the carbohydrate requirements. Protein-rich foods Protein is one of the most crucial building blocks necessary for overall growth. Protein sourced naturally from foods is rich in amino acids that help repair and maintain muscle tissue. It is also essential for boosting immunity. Primary sources of this macronutrient include lean meats, like turkey or chicken, eggs, and dairy products, including milk, yogurt, cottage cheese. Fish like salmon, canned tuna, seafood options, including shrimp, lobster, and scallops, are also a good choice of protein meats. Even almonds, peanut butter, black beans, and lentils can supplement one’s daily requirements. Vegans can switch to a recommended list of plant proteins and adjust their intake as advised by the nutritionist. Healthy fats Keto is a popular alternative to the modified Atkins food regime. By ketosis, the body extracts all its energy from healthy fats in place of carbohydrates. Studies show that this alternative fuel source is a beneficial contributing factor in managing problems linked to seizures. Healthy fat sources are sourced from milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, eggs, seafood, assorted nuts, and even certain vegetable oils. Coconut and avocados are also loaded with rich Omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for those who prefer keto over the modified Atkins. Supplements for managing seizures If someone cannot incorporate certain foods or beverages due to personal lifestyle choices, natural supplements can replenish the daily requirements. For example, vegans and lactose-intolerant people cannot consume dairy loaded with healthy fats. But that does not mean they cannot source these fats from oil supplements. Several man-made foods and condiments are rich in medium chain triglycerides that can also regularly provide for the fat requirement. XCOPRI® medication for epilepsy Cenobamate class of medications like XCOPRI® tablets have various doses and should be taken as instructed by the doctor. The oral tablet can be taken with or without food and must be swallowed, not chewed or crushed. Briviact® active prescription is used in treating partial onset seizures for children over the age of 1 month and among older adults. It is a viable option that helps lower the frequency of partial-onset seizures and can be taken in combination with multiple antiepileptic prescriptions. Briviact® binds to synaptic vesicle proteins 2A in the brain and prevents these SV2A proteins from triggering seizures.

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