Type 2 diabetes is a condition which affects a person’s body’s response to insulin – a hormone that regulates the amount of blood sugar in the blood. The body may not produce enough insulin which causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. If the condition is not properly managed kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease and stroke could be a reality for those living with the condition. Food can either help or hinder the condition and making the right food choices is pivotal for correct management.
The number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK has more than doubled in the last twenty years, according to new analysis released by Diabetes UK.
The new figures show that there are now almost 3.7 million people living with a diagnosis of the condition in the UK, an increase of 1.9 million since 1998.
This shocking statistic proves even more how imperative it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and with breakfast being the most important meal of the day, what is the best breakfast for those living with type 2 diabetes to help lower blood sugar?
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What is the best breakfast for type 2 diabetes?
Oatmeal is a hearty and healthy staple which can be a great addition in a diabetes diet.
Oats are rich in fibre along with essential minerals including magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron.
The consumption of oats has been associated with improved cardiovascular conditions including a reduced risk of heart disease and lower LDL cholesterol.
The type of soluble fibre found in oats may also help with blood sugar control as well as weight management.
Although oatmeal is high in carbohydrates, its low to medium on the glycemic index meaning it’s slowly digested and metabolised, resulting in a lower rise in blood sugar.
Berries could also be a healthy added addition in a person’s bowel of oats.
Berries have been described as antioxidant powerhouses.
In fact, berries have some of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit or vegetable and amy reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
They are also packed with anti-inflammatory properties. For type 2 diabetics, berries may help with glucose processing, weight loss and insulin sensitivity making them an excellent choice for your breakfast meal.
What the expert said
Dietician Jenna Freeman Scudder at the Ohio University Wexner medical centre said: “Some small studies suggest that skipping the morning meal can actually lead to more insulin resistance.
“Insulin resistance is a condition that requires more insulin to bring blood sugar in the normal range.
“And when it’s chronic, there’s a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
“Not breaking that fast after a night’s sleep can strain your body and its metabolism and it can also lead to over eating. It also makes unhealthy, high-calorie options more appealing.”
