Diabetes is a complex and chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood. The body either can’t make insulin, it struggles to produce enough or what it’s producing isn’t working as well as it used to. There are three common types of diabetes – type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. There are other forms of diabetes, however, they are a lot less common.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. It can’t be prevented, and there is no cure. The cause of type 1 diabetes is still unknown, and it usually affects children and young adults.
Type 2 diabetes has no single cause, but there are risk factors such as family history, ethnicity, and lifestyle. More than half of the cases of type 2 diabetes may be delayed or prevented with changes to diet and lifestyle, making it a preventable condition. It typically affects adults and is becoming increasingly common in younger age groups due to lifestyle changes.
Gestational diabetes is diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It usually goes away after the pregnancy, but having it increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in later life.
There is no way to prevent or cure type 1 diabetes, however, it can be treated successfully by managing insulin levels and living a healthy lifestyle. You may be able to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes by making lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy weight, making good food choices, and regular exercise all help. It is always important to consult with your doctor before making any significant lifestyle changes.
The Mediterranean diet has been found to be particularly beneficial for people with diabetes because it is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre. The diet is low in processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars, all of which can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
One of the main benefits of the Mediterranean diet is its ability to help manage blood sugar levels. The diet is low in refined carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike, and high in complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly and can cause a slower rise in blood sugar. This can help people with diabetes better control their blood sugar levels and reduce their risk of complications.
In addition, the Mediterranean diet is rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon. These fats have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both of which can help prevent or manage diabetes.
Furthermore, the Mediterranean diet is high in fibre, which can help improve blood sugar control, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote satiety, which can help with weight management. Studies have also shown that following a Mediterranean-style diet can lead to weight loss, which can be particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese.
The Mediterranean diet is a sustainable and enjoyable way of eating that emphasises fresh, whole foods and the importance of socialising and enjoying meals with others. This can help people with diabetes adopt healthy eating habits that they can maintain long-term, which is essential for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications.
For dietary advice, choose Med E Life. We can provide personalised dietary advice based on your individual needs and health goals. Get in touch today!