Article Published October 3, 2022

According to the National Diabetes Statistics Report, 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes and nearly 1 in 5 individuals with diabetes don’t know they have it. Due to these statistics, it is highly likely that you or somebody you know suffers from this health condition. Diabetes effects your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Although diabetes cannot be cured, type 2 diabetes can be prevented and managed. Reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes with these dietary and lifestyle changes!

The most important step you can take to maintain healthy blood sugar levels is to limit your intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates. Soda, candy, breads, cereals, granola bars, fruit juice, and pastries all contain simple sugars and refined carbohydrates. After consuming these foods and drinks, your blood sugar rises drastically, spiking your insulin levels as a result. Regular intake of simple sugars and routinely high blood sugar and insulin levels puts you at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. To maintain optimal blood sugar levels, choose complex carbohydrates instead, such as vegetables, oatmeal, and quinoa. Practice eating your complex carbohydrates alongside a lean protein source such as chicken or fish to further balance your blood sugar levels.

Another key aspect of maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is managing your portion sizes. This is important because larger portions, especially refined carbohydrates, will drastically raise your blood sugar and spike your insulin levels. Practice reading the nutrition label on the foods you prepare to learn the correct serving size for foods such as pasta, rice, bread, etc. The results will surely surprise you! MyPlate on the USDA website is another wonderful resource for measuring portion sizes.

Making lifestyle modifications is another important step. Regular exercise is clinically proven to support healthy blood sugar levels and reduce risk of type 2 diabetes. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity a day. Walking is a wonderful place to start. You can also dance, hike, or lift weights. Whatever makes you happy and feels good!

Finally, getting screened for pre-diabetes or diabetes is a good idea if you have a family history or suspect your ethnicity or lifestyle may put you at risk. Statistically, those over 45 years old, those who are overweight or obese, and African-Americans, Hispanics, and Latinos are at greater risk for diabetes. Additionally, if diabetes runs in your family, or you experienced gestational diabetes while pregnant, it is always a good idea to be screened for pre-diabetes.

Let’s talk a little bit about helpful supplements.

Consuming plenty of fiber may reduce your risk of developing diabetes as it aids in balancing blood sugar levels. Fiber is beneficial for preventing blood sugar spikes and managing your insulin levels.

Sucontral D, containing clinically studied Hintonia latiflora, traditionally used for supporting healthy blood sugar levels, combined with B-vitamins, folic acid, vitamins C and E, and trace minerals zinc and chromium, all support healthy insulin function and blood sugar metabolism.

Lastly, Raw Organic Fit, a delicious protein powder designed to help you burn fat, maintain healthy blood sugar, boost your energy, lose weight, and look great! This formula contains plenty of protein and fiber, and tastes amazing. Available in chocolate and vanilla.