Type 2 diabetes diet: Best breakfast foods to lower blood sugar

From getsurrey.co.uk

Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels; to help, here are the best breakfast foods to help manage the health condition

Nutritionist Rob Hobson shared some crucial dietary advice for those living with type 2 diabetes – a life-long condition that can be put into remission.

In type 2 diabetics, the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to dangerous spikes.

Without proper insulin control, blood sugar levels can rise unchecked, leading to an increased risk of serious complications like heart disease over time.

What you eat and drink plays a major role in blood sugar levels to counteract harmful spikes; Mr Hobson, based at Healthspan, revealed the best breakfasts for diabetics.

To maintain healthy blood sugar levels, breakfasts that are rich in fibre, protein, or healthy fats are recommended. Examples include pumpernickel bread topped with nut butter and sliced banana, plain Greek yoghurt topped with blueberries, and soaked oats made with milk, yoghurt, grated apples, sultanas, and cinnamon.

Mr Hobson said: "These foods take time to be digested and have little impact on blood sugar levels."

Elaborating on the benefit of pumpernickel bread topped with nut butter and sliced banana, Mr Hobson explained: "The addition of nut butter adds healthy fats and protein which will slow down the release of sugar from the banana."

                                                  Bananas paired with nut butter can slow down the release of sugar in the body

Most whole fruits, except melon and pineapple, have a low glycaemic index (GI), which means that sugar is released more slowly in the bloodstream.

This is why blueberries added to Greek yoghurt or another type of fruit are a great breakfast for people with type 2 diabetes.

"Yoghurt is high in protein and fat (depending on what type you choose), and if you choose natural varieties, is low in sugar," Mr Hobson added.

As for oats, Mr Hobson explained, "Oats have a low GI score and are widely understood to help manage blood glucose levels as they are high in fibre and broken down slowly in the gut."

He adds that oats also contain beta-glucans which may improve insulin sensitivity, particularly beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes.

https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/type-2-diabetes-diet-breakfast-30474092