Garima Johar
Updated:Nov 06, 2024
Diabetes management isn’t just about medication; it’s also about making informed food choices. With World Diabetes Day around the corner, why don’t you read the nutritionist’s guide to healthy grocery shopping?
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Whoever called grocery shopping a chore was bluffing. Grocery shopping does not have to be intimidating, despite the never-ending aisles and options that it comes with. Going grocery shopping does not have to be a chore; instead, it is a golden ticket to a healthier you.
Tips For Healthy Grocery Shopping
Fresh Fruits And Vegetables
Lean Protein
Another very essential component of your grocery shopping list should be lean proteins. They can significantly help improve your health. Lean proteins of any kind prevent drastic strikes on the level of glucose in your body, which is very important for diabetics.
Good Fats
Healthy fats are a must in your diet because not all fats are good for your health. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in food items like avocados, walnuts, chia seeds, olive oils, etc, help reduce the risks of cholesterol and cardiac diseases, which are prone in people with diabetes.
These healthy fats also promote the generation of hormones and brain health. For diabetics, it is very crucial that they choose good fats over saturated ones since they can help control cholesterol levels in the body. This also helps with diabetic complications like neuropathy and heart disease.
Low Fat Dairy & Alternatives
Dairy products and their substitutes are packed with protein and calcium, which are very important for the body. So, choose healthier options like low-fat cheese, skimmed milk, and yoghurt. These can give you all the vital nutrients while still helping keep your calories in check.
Plant-based alternatives like oat milk, soy yoghurt and almond milk can also be great options, especially if you are lactose intolerant and significantly reduce your carbohydrate intake. Not only will these alternates satisfy your food cravings, but they also provide the nutrition you need.
Turmeric, cinnamon, basil, and garlic will enhance the flavours of your food, helping you enjoy them more. Cinnamon specifically can enhance insulin sensitivity, leading to regulated blood sugar levels. Some of these spices also have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Try adding cucumbers, lemon and berries to your water to make them taste better and more fun to have. Cutting down on sugary drinks has a lot of advantages. Just cutting down on these sugar-infused drinks, especially for diabetes patients, will help you reach your health goals much faster.
