1. FRIENDLY FOODS FOR DIABETICS
Joy Bauer is the nutrition and health expert for NBC’s TODAY
SHOW. She shares practical, and easy to follow advice that help people eat better
and live healthier, more fulfilling lives. HERE ARE 9 FOODS THAT CAN
HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT AND PREVENT BLOOD SUGAR SPIKES...
BEANS
Whenever possible, you'll want to couple these carbs with
protein and/or healthy fat. Beans (including black, white, navy, lima, pinto,
garbanzo, soy, and kidney) are a winning combination of high-quality
carbohydrates, lean protein, and soluble fiber that helps stabilize your body's
blood-sugar levels and keeps hunger in check. Beans are also inexpensive,
versatile, and virtually fat-free.
OATMEAL
Studies have shown that eating a diet rich in whole grains and
high-fiber foods may reduce the risk of diabetes by between 35 and 42 percent. An

2. excellent source of both is heart-healthy oatmeal: It's packed with soluble fiber,
which slows the absorption of glucose from food in the stomach — keeping blood-sugar
levels under control. Top oatmeal with 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped pecans,
almonds, or walnuts to add protein and healthy fat, which stabilize blood sugars
further. Plus, the nuts add great crunch and flavor to your morning meal.
FISH
Another outstanding source of lean protein is fresh fish. Choose
an environmentally friendly variety like catfish, cod, or tilapia; all are mild-flavored,
white-fleshed fish that can be healthfully prepared by baking, grilling, or
roasting. Pair fish with the high-quality carbs found in vegetables, lentils, or beans
for another balanced meal combination that will keep your blood sugar from rising.
NONFAT YOGURT
Fat-free yogurt naturally contains both high-quality
carbohydrates and protein, making it an excellent food for slowing or preventing
an unhealthy rise in blood sugar. Studies also show that a diet high in calcium from
yogurt and other calcium-rich foods is associated with a reduced risk of Type 2
diabetes. Be sure to stick to low-fat or nonfat brands; Greek nonfat yogurt is my
favorite choice because it has twice as much protein as regular nonfat yogurt.

3. ALMONDS
Unsalted almonds provide a healthy, low-carb mix of
monounsaturated fats plus magnesium, which is believed to be instrumental in
carbohydrate metabolism. A large study out of Harvard University found that high
daily magnesium intake reduced the risk of developing diabetes by 33 percent.
Therefore, including more magnesium-rich foods like almonds, pumpkin seeds,
spinach, and Swiss chard in your diet is a smart move.
NONSTARCHY VEGETABLES
Chock-full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, non-starchy
vegetables (such as broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, and peppers) are an ideal source
of high-quality carbohydrates. Because these low-calorie, nutrient-dense veggies
have a low-impact on blood sugar, they're an integral component of your diabetes
food plan. For most people (including those looking to lose weight), this is one
food group that's okay to eat as much as you like!
WILD SALMON
Omega-3s from food help reduce your risk of heart disease,
which is important for those with Type 2 diabetes, whose risk of cardiovascular

4. disease is already elevated. (Over time, high blood glucose levels can lead to
increased deposits of fatty materials in blood vessels, which contribute to clogging
of arteries.) Wild salmon or sardines are not only rich in Omega 3s but also contain
a healthy-fat-and-protein combination that slows the body's absorption of
carbohydrates, keeping blood sugars on an even keel.
EGG WHITES
Rich in high-quality lean protein and low in carbs, egg whites
are another healthy choice for controlling or preventing Type 2 diabetes. One large
egg white contains about 16 calories and 4 g of high-quality, filling protein,
making egg whites a perfect food for blood sugar control, not to mention weight-loss
or maintenance.
AVOCADO
Avocado is high in monounsaturated fats, which are generally
considered among the healthiest of fats. Researchers have found that a diet high in
monounsaturated fats and low in low-quality carbs may improve insulin sensitivity.
Monounsaturated fats also improve heart health—an especially important benefit
for diabetics, who are at increased risk for heart disease and stroke. Add a few thin
slices of avocado to your sandwiches in place of mayonnaise, or mash a ripe
avocado with cilantro, lime juice, and diced tomatoes for a delicious guacamole
dip.