Diabetes is a growing health condition that a lot of individuals are developing. Diabetes changes the way our bodies use sugar as fuel. A hormone called insulin lets cells in our bodies know when to take in sugar for energy, and when someone has diabetes, insulin does not work like it should and can lead to high blood sugar. For someone with diabetes, it may seem scary and overwhelming to manage it, but simple lifestyle changes in diet and exercise can make a big difference.  A great place to start is by increasing dietary fiber. 

Dietary fiber helps to control blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and the release of insulin, to help you stay fuller for longer. Consuming dietary fiber is also beneficial because it protects the heart by lowering blood cholesterol. Dietary fiber can be found in a variety of foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Read more to learn about the benefits of dietary fiber, the connection it has with diabetes, and certain foods you may enjoy choosing from!

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1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 20). Fiber: The CARB that helps you manage diabetes. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/role-of-fiber.html
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 24). What is diabetes?. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/abasics/diabetes.html
3. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, January 5). How much fiber is found in common foods?. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/high-fiber-foods/art-20050948