A large portion of the nation’s population suffers from diabetes. This disorder occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin, or when the body cannot make insulin at all. This causes the blood sugar levels to rise out of control, causing symptoms of extreme thirst, frequent urination, excess hunger, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, and abrasions or cuts that heal slowly. This is why doctors recommend certain dietary and hydration changes for diabetes patients. For instance, increasing water intake is imperative to help flush excess glucose from the blood. Sipping still or flavored sparkling water throughout the day can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent dehydration. Sipping still spring water (such as Deer Park) or flavored sparkling water throughout the day can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent dehydration, a whole house water filter system (yes, stop wondering , “Do Brita water filters filter out fluoride?”) is also a good option. Even carrying a reusable water bottle (look into Yeti gear sale at Galls) can help keep you sipping throughout the day.

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

An exclusive symptom for type 1 diabetes is weight loss, and for type 2, it is numbness or tingling in the feet and hands. In addition to doctor-prescribed insulin shots, medications (there are also diabetes meds that cause tardive dyskinesia ), and vaccinations (consider Novavax booster shot news for diabetes), dietary changes have been shown to help manage symptoms and blood sugar spikes and lows, including:

1. Hard Boiled eggs

Eggs are a healthy snack for people with diabetes because of the protein content. One hard boiled or devilled egg has six grams of protein which is good for diabetics because it prevents the blood sugar level from rising too high. Eggs also promote fullness, which is good for weight management and control in diabetics.

2. Nuts

Almonds have a great nutritional value, and are very convenient to snack on. They provide over 15 vitamins and minerals which are essential for the body. Almonds can help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Due to the content of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, almonds have the ability to help stabilize blood sugar levels.

3. Veggies and hummus

Vegetables and hummus are good sources of fiber and vitamins. Hummus is a creamy dip made from chickpeas. When eaten with raw vegetables, it is a tasty snack that has properties that will benefit blood sugar control.

4. Apples and nut butter

A sliced apple paired with peanut butter, or any nut butter, is a great snack for diabetics. It satisfies the sweet tooth without sugar. Apples are rich in nutrients that include vitamins B and C, and potassium. Peanut butter provides manganese, magnesium, and vitamin E. All of these can help manage diabetes.

5. Cottage cheese

Cottage cheese is also great for those with diabetes. One half cup of the small curd cottage cheese has vitamins, minerals, and 13 grams of protein. It only has four grams of carbs.

6. Tuna

Tuna salad is a healthy snack that everyone can enjoy. Tuna is a great source of omega 3 fatty acids that benefit everyone, and many health issues. It provides protein, and no carbs. Tuna helps the diabetic manage their diabetes because it has the potential to improve blood sugar control, and lower inflammation.