Vegetarianism has become an increasingly popular lifestyle choice. Whether you don’t want to promote animal cruelty or simply don’t like meat, you may be thinking about going on a vegetarian diet. If you have diabetes, the good news is that vegetarian diets are actually highly recommended for managing your condition. Here’s what all diabetics should know about the benefits of a vegetarian diet.
Increased Fiber Intake
Vegetarians tend to consume higher amounts of fiber because their diets often consist mostly of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber is very beneficial for diabetics. In fact, consuming more than 50 grams of fiber a day can help reduce blood glucose levels, according to the American Diabetes Association. Meat does not contain any fiber, which makes it more challenging for meat eaters to meet fiber requirements without taking a supplement.
Blood Sugar Management
Maintaining a healthy body weight can also help you keep your blood glucose levels under control, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is because fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help your body respond to insulin more efficiently. If you keep your blood sugar levels under control by following a healthy diet, your doctor may also be able to lower your medication dosages.
Potential for Weight Loss
Vegetarian diets tend to be lower in calories and fat. Therefore, people who do not eat meat tend to weigh less than meat-eaters. Being at a lower body weight helps reduce the risk of heart disease, which diabetics are at a greater risk for. Losing weight can not only prevent diabetes-related risks, but it can also lead to a longer and more fulfilling life.
Reduced Risk of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease, which is prevalent among individuals with type 2 diabetes, can be prevented by following a vegetarian diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet which is high in meat can cause kidney disease because your body may have difficulty filtering protein. Be sure to talk to your doctor about protein substitutes that will not affect your kidney health.
Conclusion
To manage diabetes and reduce the risk of related illnesses through a vegetarian diet, it is important to follow a diet which consists mostly of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A diet which is high in dairy, refined carbohydrates, junk food, and otherwise fattening foods can lead to weight gain and increased blood glucose levels. Before making any changes to your diet, it is important to talk to your physician. Also, ensure that your nutritional needs are being met, so be sure to take a daily multivitamin
