Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar. Currently, China is the “epicenter” of diabetes and ranks first globally. Diabetes itself is not frightening; what’s frightening is that many people are unaware of whether they have diabetes.
Many people know that the frightening aspect of diabetes lies in its complications. Once high blood sugar occurs, adjustments in diet and lifestyle must be actively made to aid in controlling blood sugar.
Which habits easily increase the occurrence of “diabetes complications”?
1st: Irregular meals
Irregular meals, skipping meals, or binge-eating are equivalent to frequently subjecting the pancreas to a glucose tolerance test, increasing the pancreas’ burden. This can lead to insufficient insulin secretion, signaling a “red light” for blood sugar. Therefore, regular meals help in supplementing nutrients.
2nd: Unreasonable exercise
Exercise is beneficial for health. Some people persist in regular exercise, while others avoid it, staying inactive for long periods. Repeatedly engaging in anaerobic exercise could cause muscle hypoxia, harming heart and lung function, and negatively impacting blood sugar control. It is advisable to schedule exercise reasonably.
3rd: Misuse of hypoglycemic drugs
After high blood sugar appears, doctors may suggest taking hypoglycemic drugs. However, some individuals may choose to improperly control blood sugar with hypoglycemic medication. Incorrect methods like incorrect drug selection or dosage can affect the efficacy of blood sugar reduction and accelerate the onset of complications. Therefore, it is crucial to follow medical advice and avoid self-medication.
4th: Prolonged negative emotions
Emotions constantly influence physical health. Individuals who often experience negative emotions like anger or anxiety tend to have poor health. High blood sugar coupled with recurrent negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger, or stress can enhance the excitability of sympathetic nerves, leading to increased secretion of adrenaline and cortisol. This disrupts normal insulin secretion, causing blood sugar to rise. Adjusting one’s mindset is beneficial for enhancing physical fitness.
5th: Lack of awareness of weight loss
Diabetes is commonly linked to metabolic disorders caused by obesity. Controlling weight is essential for managing blood sugar and decreasing damage to other organs. Obesity can trigger diabetes and increase the burden on the pancreas, heart, and kidneys, making individuals more susceptible to various complications. Obesity reduces insulin sensitivity, affecting insulin secretion and increasing the risk of multiple complications. Therefore, overweight individuals can consider weight reduction.
When high blood sugar occurs, strictly adhere to medication instructions, and incorporate foods that help stabilize blood sugar in daily life. However, these foods alone should not be relied upon for blood sugar control.
Which foods can be dubbed “natural insulin”?
Okra
It is believed to lower blood sugar due to its high dietary fiber content. The fiber can envelop fats, expedite gastrointestinal motility, and impede fat absorption. Recent studies have found that okra contains quercetin, which inhibits sucrase enzymes, providing another mechanism for its blood sugar-lowering effect.
Green bell pepper
For those who enjoy consuming green bell peppers, it is beneficial. Green bell peppers prevent blood clotting, eliminate vessel debris and toxins, safeguarding blood vessels. Suitable for individuals with high blood sugar, they reduce blood lipid and sugar levels, promoting overall health. Hence, they are also called natural insulin.
Konjac
Konjac contains glucomannan, which effectively lowers blood sugar levels by slowing glucose absorption, aiding in postprandial blood sugar reduction, easing the pancreas’ burden. Konjac is beneficial for weight loss, particularly for obese individuals with high blood sugar. Regular consumption improves blood circulation and assists in stabilizing blood sugar.
White tea
Rich in nutrients and essential enzymes, white tea promotes fat metabolism, controls insulin secretion, and consumes excess blood sugar, maintaining blood sugar balance. Daily consumption aids in balancing blood sugar, preventing diabetes, and enhancing one’s health.
Cistanche
A natural health tonic, cistanche effectively regulates blood sugar levels, balances glucose in the bloodstream, and boosts immunity, strengthening the body.
Black sesame
Containing natural vitamin E, black sesame aids insulin secretion. Regular consumption increases blood sugar stability, making it beneficial for body health.
Mung bean sprouts
Their vitamin C and dietary fiber content support cholesterol excretion, prevent blood thickening, and reduce serum cholesterol. Acting as an insulin enhancer, mung bean sprouts help utilize insulin for stable blood sugar and lipid levels, enhancing immunity and overall strength. They are rich in B vitamins and ideal for spring consumption.
Bitter melon
Known for its detoxifying properties, bitter melon stimulates insulin release, assisting in lowering blood sugar levels. Despite its slight bitterness, it holds high nutritional value. Individuals with poor gastrointestinal health should consume it in moderation as it could exacerbate discomfort. For those with high blood sugar, consuming a little bitter melon or a glass of bitter melon juice daily is beneficial.
Pumpkin
A commonly consumed nutritious food, pumpkin’s constituents inhibit glucose absorption, effectively reducing body cholesterol levels, preventing arteriosclerosis. Its numerous beneficial substances promote insulin secretion, and consuming cooked pumpkin yields significant health benefits.
