By David Saunders | UPDATED: 11:28, 02 April 2020
In these uncertain times, those with pre-existing health issues may be feeling more anxious. Dr Sarah Brewer working in association with CuraLin (www.curalife.com) the all-natural supplement that helps balance blood sugar levels, offers her smart shopping list for those with type 2 diabetes.
1. Soups
Healthy soups are a great choice for type 2 diabetics. Opt for soups that are low in sugar and that are filled with vegetables. Or even make your own, you can fill these with lots of your favourite nutritious veggies and can season with various dried herbs to add flavour without the use of copious amounts of salt/stock.
Adding legumes like lentils will ensure your soups are filling whilst keeping sugar levels stable. You can also make soup in big batches and freeze these, so you have plenty when staying indoors.
2. Brown rice
White rice has long been known to have a negative effect on blood sugar. Like most white foods, it causes blood sugar spikes. A moderate amount of healthy whole grains, such as brown rice, and other fibre-rich foods instead of processed grains may reduce the risk of complications like diabetic neuropathy, which is nerve damage resulting from high blood sugar. Brown rice is full of fibre which is important when managing diabetes – fibre is not digested by the body therefore it does not affect blood sugar levels. This helps to keep blood sugar levels steady and may prevent glucose spikes. Rice also has a long shelf-life so is ideal for stocking your cupboards with.
3. Wholegrain Pasta
Similar to wholegrain rice, wholegrain pasta is a good choice for diabetics when compare to its white counterpart. Opting for wholegrain will again increase your fibre intake as well as your vitamins and minerals and reduce any resulting blood sugar spike. Again, this can be stored for a good amount of time and is versatile with healthy homemade tomato-based sauces.
4. Chickpeas
Chickpeas have an extremely low glycaemic index. The high fibre and protein content of chickpeas also translates to these super-legumes being useful in the regulation of blood-glucose levels, and they have also been shown to help control appetite. This humble legume can be used in lots of dishes, be inventive, you can bake them with paprika for a yummy snack or use them in curries and stews. Tinned food is great for keeping in the cupboard during times like this.
5. Tinned Tomatoes
Whether you’re diabetic or not, tinned tomatoes are probably on your shopping list and for good reason. Their versatility and long shelf-life make them ideal for isolation cooking. Tomatoes are a super-food for diabetes, they are packed with vitamin C, are an excellent source of vitamin A, and are a good source of potassium. They’re also low-carb and low-cal so ideal for adding to your trolley.
6. Frozen Vegetables and Berries
It’s wise to opt for frozen veggies and berries that you can store for longer and easily incorporate into lots of healthy dishes. Frozen vegetables are great for adding to soups and stews and berries can be used in delicious breakfast smoothies or with unsweetened Greek yoghurt.
7. Oats
Oats can be a great addition to your diet to help manage diabetes. Especially if you use it to replace other high-carb, high-sugar breakfast choices. When using oats for porridge, consume with protein or healthy fats such as eggs, nut butter, or Greek yogurt. Adding 1–2 tablespoons of chopped pecans, walnuts or almonds can add protein and healthy fat, which can further help stabilize your blood sugar. Oats contain soluble fibre, which helps regulate blood sugar.
Top tip: Remember when following a diabetic friendly diet, portion size is key. It’s especially easy to over-eat when boredom strikes so try to keep yourself occupied with home exercises or chatting with friends on FaceTime.
Try an all-natural supplement
CuraLin (RRP £59.00, www.curalife.com) is a specially tailored natural formula that promotes healthy and balanced blood sugar levels and insulin production in those suffering from Type 2 Diabetes. The nutritional supplement is made from a mixture of ten natural ingredients, which work with the body to help balance the blood sugar profile.
Dr Sarah Brewer recommends CuraLin for those suffering with type 2 diabetes due to the positive effects reported and measured by its users.
Dr Brewer explains, “The blend of 10 Ayurvedic herbs within CuraLin have a range of beneficial effects on glucose control and metabolism.”
“As a result, users report that their glucose control quickly improves and, in some cases, normalises within 4 weeks. Users also report reduced cravings for sweet food, and experience improved energy, sleep and general quality of life.”
Join A Community
As people are increasingly advised to remain indoors and health services focus on dealing with the most urgent cases, it’s wise to seek support and comfort from online communities.
CuraLife have created ‘Winning Type 2 Diabetes Together’ a safe online space of over 8,000 individuals around the world suffering from high or erratic glucose levels or indeed living with type 2 diabetes. It provides a platform to talk openly about their experiences and help one another with any queries or concerns.
If you’re going through something, it’s likely someone else will have too! Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been coping with the condition for years, it’s the ideal place to find support, knowledge, lifestyle tips and recipes. Search ‘Winning Type 2 Diabetes Together’ on Facebook to join.