The Role of Berries in Managing Diabetes

Berries are often the first food that comes to mind when people think of superfoods. This is because berries really do have amazing nutritional properties that provide the body with lots of health benefits. Your standard berry is going to come equipped with folic acid, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and phytochemicals, just to name a few. These vitamins and minerals play a major role in reducing cardiovascular disease, lowering high blood pressure, countering memory loss, preventing cancer, and managing diabetes.

Berries and Diabetes

Berries have a relatively low glycemic index which makes them a natural for treating diabetes and a good meal plan supplement. The low glycemic index is in large part due to the dietary fiber content contained in berries. Your body does not actually break down dietary fiber; instead, the fiber passes through your system. This naturally reduces the amount of glucose in your blood stream.

Incorporating Berries Into Your Diet

Eating berries regularly is a great way to manage and regulate your diabetes. The challenge is actually incorporating the berries into your diet. They aren’t really a food item that people eat on their own. Most times, berries are part of a larger dish. Below are some great ways to incorporate berries into your diet.

Breakfast smoothies

The breakfast smoothie is one of the best breakfast meals available. The berries make it naturally sweet, so you don’t’ have to utilize outside sweeteners. You can also easily tailor the smoothie to suit your dietary needs.

Frozen Berries

Frozen berries make for one of the most refreshing snacks around. Try rinsing some berries with water and freezing them to make a healthy and refreshing snack during hot days.

Salad topping

Another great way to include berries in your diet is as a salad topping. They’re a great way to brighten up a leafy green salad and make it healthier. Adding fresh berries to your salad is also a great way to reduce the amount of dressing you’re using.