Diabetes doubles the risk of developing heart disease. Your doctor might tell you that eating smart is probably the most efficient way of managing diabetes. You must know that no two people with diabetes respond in the same way, so there are no universal dietary tips for diabetes patients. These healthy eating tips seem to have managed blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure for many people with diabetes.

So, here are the top six dietary tips for diabetes patients.

Eat high fiber carbs

Carbs affect your blood glucose levels immensely more than fats and proteins, so it’s important to include the right kind of carbs in your diet. Experts recommend eating high-fiber complex carbs, as they digest slowly, and prevent your body from producing excess insulin. Some healthy sources of these carbs include whole grains like brown rice, buckwheat, and whole oats, fruits, vegetables, pulses such as chickpeas, beans, and lentils.

Replace red and processed meat

People who cut down on carbs tend to eat more meat. But experts suggest to strictly limit the consumption of red and processed meat, like beef, lamb, sausages, bacon, and ham, since they are linked with heart conditions and cancers. You can replace red and processed meat intake with fish rich in omega-3s, eggs, unsalted nuts, chicken, and turkey. Beans, lentils, and peas are also rich in fiber and make for a great alternative for red and processed meats.

Consume healthy fats

Fats provide energy to our bodies, but some are unhealthy and others positively affect your health. So, you must choose them wisely. Experts suggest eliminating unhealthy fats, such as trans fats; consume saturated fats, found in tropical oils, red meat, and dairy, in moderation; and eat more of unsaturated fats, found in fish, olive oil, nuts, flaxseeds, and avocados.

Reduce sugar

Cutting down on added sugars is one of the most common dietary tips for diabetes patients, and we know it can be difficult in the beginning. This is why you must take little steps, and start with swapping sugary drinks and sugary juices, and energy drinks, with water, tea, and coffee without added sugar. You might also want to keep an eye on packaged foods loaded with sugar, fast food meals, cereals, canned goods, among others. This will ensure that your blood sugar level and weight remain in control.

Consume fruit and veggie-rich diet

Fruits and veggies are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fibers that your body needs every day. So, it’s important to include them in both meals and snacks. However, you must ensure that you only eat raw fruits and avoid fruit juices since they contain added sugar.

Choose snacks wisely

People with diabetes might want to think twice the next time you pick up chips, crisps, chocolates, and biscuits to snack on. These foods will only make your condition worse. You can instead swap these foods with yogurt, seeds, unsalted nuts, fruits, and veggies. However, you must limit their portion so that your weight remains under control.