08/05/2025
FOR DIABETIC PATIENTS
Control Blood Sugar with Smart Local Foods
Living with diabetes doesn't mean giving up flavor, it means making smarter food choices.
The key? Stick to low glycemic index (GI) foods. These are foods that release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, preventing sudden sugar spikes.
Here's a list of blood-sugar-friendly Nigerian meals and why they work:
1. Unripe Plantain Porridge – Unripe plantain is low in sugar and high in fiber. This supports blood sugar regulation and keeps you full without raising glucose levels like ripe plantain would.
2. Ofada Rice (Local brown rice) with Vegetable Soup – Ofada rice also known as local brown rice contains more fiber than white rice. It digests slowly and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
3. Beans (boiled or porridge with low oil) – Beans are high in protein and fiber, they release energy gradually and keep you full longer without raising the sugar levels.
4. Grilled Fish and Greens – Fish provides lean, carb-free protein. It could be paired with vegetables like ugu or spinach(which are rich in vitamins) for added fiber and essential nutrients.
5. Plain Oats (unsweetened) – Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar.
Fruits You Can Enjoy in Moderation:
Yes, diabetics can eat fruits, but wisely. Focus on portion control and fruit type.
Here are some of the fruits to enjoy.
1. Apples –Apples Contain fiber, especially the skin. Helps stabilize blood sugar.
2. Pawpaw (Papaya) – pawpaw is Low in sugar, easy to digest, and rich in antioxidant-rich.
3. Cucumber – cucumber is very low in carbs and calories. Good for hydration and controlling blood sugar.
4. Avocado – Avocados are also low in carbs, high in healthy fats, which help regulate blood sugar and improve heart health.
Why Not All Foods Are Good?
White bread, sugary snacks, soft drinks = High GI = blood sugar raise = stress on your pancreas.
Pineapple, mango, watermelon (in large amounts) = High natural sugars = potential raise.
Fried or fatty foods = May worsen insulin resistance over time.
Avoid: Soft drinks, white bread, pastries, sugary fruits in large amounts, and deep-fried meals.
Note: Not all fruits or foods are off-limits. Just choose diabetic-friendly options to stay on track with your health.
Stay tuned for my next post, I'll be sharing simple food swaps for diabetics (e.g., soft drink vs. zobo, white bread vs. wheat bread, and more).
Don't keep this to yourself! Share with people in rural areas, those who don't have access to the internet or can't read.
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Rêx Divy's Diary