Latest News on Broccoli Sprouts for Diabetes

Increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress have been linked to the increased risk of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. When the body is unable to fight disease-causing radicals such as reactive oxygen species, it becomes overwhelmed leading to oxidative stress. Cruciferous vegetables like:

  • cauliflower,
  • broccoli sprouts,
  • Brussels sprouts and
  • cabbage

contain active plant chemicals commonly known as glucosinolates in high quantities. The body metabolizes these glucosinolates into isothiocyanates which are very powerful anti-carcinogens and antioxidants. This helps reduce oxidative stress which is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes.

How can broccoli sprouts benefit Diabetes patients?

Broccoli sprouts are the richest source of a chemo-protective compound known as glucoraphanin (SGS-Sulforaphane glucosinolate). Glucoraphanin protects your body against cancer and also improves the body’s ability to excrete or eliminate toxic substances. However, it is important to understand that broccoli sprouts contain up to 50 times more glucoraphanin than mature broccoli. Broccoli sprouts for Diabetes, broccoli benefits

This is mainly because the plant develops its nutrients in a concentrated way when it is young. These detoxifying enzymes and antioxidants help protect your tissues and cells. Glucosinolate glucoraphanin improves kidney function and blood pressure.

On the other hand, it boosts the cell enzymes that protect cells from cancer-causing chemicals and molecular damage. Sulforaphane is a mebolite of glucosinolate glucoraphanin which normalizes DNA methylation. This is a very important part of the normal cell function that regulates gene expression and activates more than 200 genes.

Moreover, Sulforaphane restores the immune system as you age and also increases the liver’s ability to get rid of free radicals and carcinogenic compounds.

Therefore, besides its antimicrobial and anti-diabetic properties sulforaphane also slows the growth of tumors by killing cancer stem cells. The phytochemical sulforaphane is one of the most powerful compounds in broccoli sprouts. It stimulates the production of vital enzymes that reduce the number of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that cause cell damage.

This is very beneficial especially for diabetics primarily because they face a high ser risk (up to 5 times) of developing various cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart attacks. Since sulforaphane reduces the amount of Reactive Oxygen Species by up to 73%, the risk of developing heart attacks and strokes which are linked to cell damage and damaged blood vessels is greatly reduced.

What is the best way to eat broccoli sprouts?

In order to enjoy more broccoli health benefits, opt for broccoli sprouts because they allow the body to extract more minerals, vitamins, essential fats and amino acids from the rest of the diet. Just 0.17 ounces (5 grams) of broccoli sprouts have a concentration of glucoraphanin equal to that contained in 5.2 ounces (150 grams) of mature broccoli.

The way you cook broccoli sprouts can also alter the nutrient content. If you microwave it, the beneficial compounds will be reduced by 74% to 90%. However, steaming or eating your broccoli raw is a good way to ensure that its phytonutrients are kept intact.

Broccoli Sprouts for Diabetes, Powder Form

Real Sprouts V’s Sprout Powder

Yes, fresh broccoli sprouts are great to eat and of course, still very beneficial for your health, especially for diabetics. However keep in mind, you may get tired of eating soo many Broccoli sprouts a day and they do go bad if not eaten after a few days.

best supplements to lower blood sugarAnother option for getting your good dose of sulforaphane, is by taking it in powder form.

Benefits – Broccoli sprout powder can keep for months – doesn’t need refrigeration, but obviously, it would last longer again. Convenient when traveling – just sprinkle a spoonful in with your juice or smoothie of a morning.

HINT – Always remember if you are adding the powder to your cooking, always do so just prior to serving to ensure you are getting the maximum health benefits.

Adding organically-grown whole foods in your diet is one of the most effective ways of achieving optimum health and preventing disease.

Therefore broccoli sprouts for diabetes patients especially, should definitely be part of the pre-diabetic (metabolic syndrome) and diabetic diet.

best supplements for diabetics

 

Continue ReadingLatest News on Broccoli Sprouts for Diabetes

Top 4 Diabetic Lotions to Help Increase Circulation.

Best Lotions for Diabetic Feet

Diabetes can cause deprivation of oxygen to your skin, leading to poor circulation that might lead to severe, chronic dryness, slow healing, redness, cracking, and itching. This basically means that diabetics can get injured more easily and are more likely to get infections that take longer to heal. Here are some of the best lotions for diabetic feet that can help alleviate these diabetes complications:

  1. Neoteric Advanced Healing Cream

Neoteric advanced healing cream provides treatment for cracked, damaged, and chronic dry skin. One of its main ingredients is TriOxygenc which helps infuse oxygen into your skin. This diabetic skin care cream is proven to speed healing and increase circulation by strengthening the natural defenses of the skin. It provides instant soothing action by quickly restoring your skin to a healthier, smooth soft texture.

Main benefitsbest lotion for diabetic dry skin

  • Especially great for feet and hands
  • Speeds healing by strengthening the natural defenses of the skin
  • Protects and restores chronic dry, damaged, cracked skin
  • Helps increase the skin’s natural collagen production and circulation
  • Promotes, healthier, stronger, more resilient skin
  • Provides therapeutic skin moisturization and protection
  • Non-greasy
  • Absorbs very easily

Best Cream for Diabetic Feet

Neoteric advanced healing cream provides exceptional skin care for people with all types of dry skin conditions including diabetes.

How to use

Apply as often as necessary or as directed by the healthcare expert or physician. Daily use is recommended to help maintain the skin’s soft, healthy appearance.

  1. Gold Bond Ultimate Hydrating Lotion – Diabetic Skin Care Lotions

With diabetes, your skin can become rough, cracked and uncomfortable. Gold bond ultimate hydrating lotion is specifically formulated for dry skin with hydralast and seven intensive moisturizers to hydrate and soothe the skin while adding a strong protective layer of moisture for up to 24 hours. Gold bond ultimate hydrating lotion is ideal for daily use and does not contain any harsh alpha hydroxyl acids that irritate the skin.Foot Creams For Diabetic Neuropathy

  • Ideal for all over body use
  • Contains aloe and essential vitamins that moisturize and nourish dry, flaky skin
  • Keeps the skin feeling and looking noticeably healthy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • An exclusive formula that is dermatologist tested

Diabetic Cream for Feet

How to use

Apply Gold bond ultimate hydrating lotion liberally to rough, dry and problem skin areas to speed up moisturization.

  1. Eucerin Diabetics’ Skin Relief Body Lotion

Eucerin diabetics’ dry skin relief lotion is specifically designed to leave the skin feeling comfortable, hydrated and healthier all day long. This unique, non-greasy formula is enriched with alpha hydroxyl which repairs and exfoliates dry, flaky skin. Besides smooth ing dry, rough skin, Eucerin diabetics’ skin relief body lotion noticeably improves overall skin condition and appearance just after one use! It is designed to repair, enhance and protect your skin, giving you the confidence that comes from healthy-looking and radiant skin.

BenefitsBest lotion for diabetic dry skin

  • The alpha hydroxyl formula smoothens rough, dry skin after just one use
  • Fast absorbing and lightweight
  • Fragrance-free
  • The clinically proven formula that provides 24-hour moisture
  • Paraben-free
  • Dermatologist recommended brand

Diabetic Lotions to Help Increase Circulation

How to use

Apply liberally over rough, dry skin every day or as recommended by the physician. Apply immediately after showering or bathing for best results.

  1. DiabetAid Pain and Tingling Relief Lotion

Diabetes can cause two main problems that hurt your legs and feet. One complication is damage to the nerves which leads to an infection or a sore. The other problem is blood flow which can make it hard for an infection or sore to heal. However, if you check for sores, cuts and also for sand, wash your feet and hands with mild soap, chances of infections are greatly reduced. Sometimes you may also feel a tingling sensation in your hands and feet. Applying DiabetAid pain and Tingling Relief Lotion will relieve those uncomfortable sensations.

Benefits Diabetic Lotions to Help Increase Circulation

  • Soothing relief for uncomfortable tingling in the feet and hands
  • Contains 4 essential moisturizers to relieve dry, rough skin
  • Does not contain any ingredients that are considered harmful or dangerous to diabetics.

diabetic skin care lotions

How to use

Apply to affected areas daily but you should avoid applying more than 4 times per day. Children under 2 years should consult a doctor for directions and recommendations.

Learn everything you should know about Coronavirus and diabetes HERE!

diabetic foot cream for dry skin

Continue ReadingTop 4 Diabetic Lotions to Help Increase Circulation.

2200 Calorie Diabetic Diet

Healthy eating is vital for the management of diabetes and can make a difference in controlling blood sugar levels and preventing the long-term effects of the condition.

A 2,200-calorie diabetic diet refers to eating a maximum of 2,200 calories per day. This diet is commonly used by diabetes patients to lose weight, control blood glucose, or lower the risk of developing complications such as heart problems.

  • Blood sugar refers to the amount of simple sugar (glucose) in the blood. Glucose mainly comes from carbohydrates and it mainly provides energy in the body.
  • Most diabetic diets are designed to limit the number of carbohydrates, protein, and fat you eat. A 2,200-calorie diet is significantly low in fat and calories.

Importance of a Healthy Diet for Diabetes

best diet for diabeticsThe food in your diabetes meal plan provides the nutrients and calories you need to give the body energy and manage your blood glucose for healthy living. Consult your physician about the meal plan that is right for your specific condition and needs.

In order to lose weight, your body needs to use up more calories through activity or you may need to eat fewer calories. To gain weight, you need to supply your body with more calories than it uses up.

A comprehensive diabetes care team (dietitian, physician, and registered nurse) will help you create a meal plan that provides your body with the right amount of calories it needs each day as well as the level of activity needed, depending on your goals.

After creating your diabetes meal plan, always check the number of calories in the foods you eat. Calorie counts can be found on Nutritional Facts labels or you can check them online. Remember, you want to strike a balance between medication, activity, and the foods you eat.

Read about the best Diabetic Carb counter apps HERE!

Exchange list for diabetes

The exchange list provides a large variety of foods carefully grouped together based on their nutritional content. Each serving has approximately the same calories, fat, carbohydrate, and protein as other foods on that list. Therefore, you can exchange any food for another food within the same list.

 

Meal Exchanges (Meal Pattern) Sample (Meal Example)
Breakfast

(1st meal)

 1 fruit

1 meat (lean)

1 milk

1 fat

2 starch

 1 cup honeydew melon

1 oz Canadian melon

1 cup milk (fat-free)

1 tsp margarine or butter

1 English muffin
Mid-morning Snack

(2nd meal)

 1 starch and 1 fat

1 milk

 ¼ cup granola

6 oz (2/3) low-fat plain yogurt
Lunch

(3rd meal)

 2 meat (lean)

2 starch

1 fruit

1 vegetable

 

Free food

2 fat

 ½ cup egg (scrambled)

2 corn tortillas (approx. 6 inches across)

½ cup mango

½ cup sautéed veggies (such as mushrooms, onion and pepper)

salsa

2 tsp. margarine or oil

 
Mid-afternoon snack

Fruit smoothie

(4th meal)

 

 1 starch

1 fruit

1 milk

 3 tsp. wheat germ

1 cup frozen fruit

2/3 cup vanilla yogurt
Dinner

(5th meal)

 2 fat

3 starch

3 meat (medium fat)

2 vegetable

1 fruit

1 vegetable

 2 tsp. olive oil

1 cup pasta, cooked (whole meal)

3 oz lean meatballs

½ cup spaghetti sauce (homemade)

½ large pear

½ cup sautéed green beans
Bedtime snack

(6th meal)

 1 milk

1 meat (high fat)

1 starch

 1 cup (8 oz) skim milk

1 oz cheese

4-6 crackers

 

This 2,200 calories meal plan contains healthy and delicious diabetes-friendly food items that make it easy to control your blood sugar. Snacks and meals contain fiber-rich complex carbs (such as vegetables, fruits, and grains), healthy fats, and lean protein. They also limit refined carbohydrates (like added sugars, white rice, and white bread), sodium, and saturated fats – a recommendation highly recommended for diabetics.

Furthermore, the carbohydrates are well-balanced, with meals containing 60-75g of carbohydrates (4-5 carb servings) each and snacks containing 15 – 30g of carbohydrates (1-2 carb servings) each.

Whether you use this plan to create your own diabetes meal plan or follow it exactly as it is, you’ll realize that diabetes meal plans don’t need to be complicated or restrictive. This 2,200-calorie diabetes meal plan proves that people with diabetes can still incorporate delicious foods into their meal plans while still keeping their blood glucose levels under control.

Diabetes Tips and Guidelines

  1. Choose healthy foods including green vegetables, low-fat meals, fish, fruits, whole grain cereals, skinless poultry, and low-fat dairy products.
  2. Avoid food selections that are high in fat and calories like pastries, bars, pies, candies, etc.
  3. Store-bought bread can contain varying amounts of fiber and carbohydrates. Therefore, you should aim for bread that delivers around 15g of carbs (1 carbohydrate serving) and at least 20% of the daily fiber value for one slice.
  4. Beans offer a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber that help keep blood glucose under control while helping you feel satisfied throughout the day.
  5. Rather than buying flavored sugary yogurt, add maple syrup or honey to plain yogurt in order to control the total amount of sugar you get. Alternatively, you can go with light options made using “zero-calorie” sweeteners.
  6. Pairing fiber and protein with carbohydrates helps slow down absorption and digestion, helping keep your blood glucose from rising too fast.
  7. Oats are a great option especially for breakfast because they are high in fiber. Less processed oats are higher in fiber content. Try steel-cut, old-fashioned, or rolled oats.
  8. While whole grains such as brown rice are a healthy option for diabetics, cauliflower rice is a great low-carbohydrate option.

The bottom line

2200 calorie diabetes dietEat a schedule of 3 meals and 3 snacks per day on your 2,200-calorie diabetic diet. Eating small meals at regular intervals aids in controlling blood sugar levels and ensures the body gets all the nutrients it needs for your day-to-day activities while remaining strong and healthy.

Reverse diabetes

Be sure to monitor the amount of protein and carbohydrates in each snack and meal. Carbohydrates affect blood glucose, therefore eating a specified amount is vital for blood glucose control.

 

The 2,200 calories diabetic diet restricts calorie intake to 2,200 calories per day, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels while minimizing the deposition of fats in the body.

Therefore, following this comprehensive diet plan helps in managing blood glucose levels without hampering the body’s dietary requirements.

2200 calorie diet for diabetic

Continue Reading2200 Calorie Diabetic Diet

Do you Suffer from Diabetic Foot Numbness?

What is Diabetic Neuropathy Numbness?

It is a complication caused by nerve damage that occurs in diabetes patients. High blood glucose levels have the potential to injure or damage nerves throughout the body. However, diabetic neuropathy usually injures nerves in the feet and legs.

However, depending on the nerves that have been affected and the level of damage, diabetic neuropathy signs and symptoms can range from numbness to pain in your feet and legs. Therefore, some people can have mild signs but for others, the condition can be disabling and quite painful.

Diabetic neuropathy affects about 50% of all diabetes patients. However, the condition can be prevented or slowed with a healthy lifestyle and consistent blood sugar management.

Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy

The symptoms usually depend on the nerves which have been affected and patients may not notice anything is amiss until significant damage occurs.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is also known as distal symmetric peripheral diabetic neuropathy and it is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy.

It usually affects the legs and feet first before progressing to the arms and hands. Symptoms of peripheral diabetic neuropathy are usually worse during the night and they may include:

Numb feet diabetes

  • Numbness in feet and legs
  • Burning or tingling sensation
  • Diminished ability to feel temperature changes or pain
  • Higher sensitivity to touch (even a blanket’s weight can be uncomfortable or painful for some people)
  • Foot problems such as infections, ulcers, joint, and bone pain
  • Cramps or sharp pains

It is recommended that testing for diabetic neuropathy start immediately after diagnosis with diabetes and annually after that.

Causes

Although the exact cause of diabetic foot numbness is not known, studies show that uncontrolled high blood glucose damages nerves over time and affects their ability to transmit signals, causing diabetic neuropathy. Moreover, high blood glucose weakens the walls of capillaries (small blood vessels) that deliver nutrients and oxygen to the nerves.

Risk factors

Although anyone suffering from diabetes can develop diabetic neuropathy, some factors increase the risk of getting nerve damage.

  1. Diabetes history:

The risk of developing diabetic neuropathy numbness is higher for people who have suffered from diabetes for longer, especially if their blood glucose is not well controlled.

  1. Uncontrolled blood sugar:

Poor blood sugar control increases the risk of all diabetes complications, including diabetic neuropathy numbness.

  1. Being overweight:

If you have a BMI (body mass index) of 25 of more, your risk of diabetic neuropathy is higher.

  1. Smoking:

Smoking hardens and narrows the arteries hence reducing blood flow to the feet and legs. Reduced blood flow causes numbness and damages peripheral nerves making it harder for wounds to heal.

  1. Kidney disease:

Chronic conditions such as diabetes can damage your kidneys. Damaged kidneys send toxins into your bloodstream leading to nerve damage.

Complications of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy can lead to various complications, such as:

  • Loss of a leg, foot, or toe

Nerve damage leads to loss of feeling in the feet, so cuts and other minor injuries can turn into ulcers or patients without the patient realizing it. Some cases can gradually become severe and infections can cause tissue death or spread to the bone. Amputation (removal) of the lower leg, foot or a toe may even be necessary.

  • Hypoglycemia unawareness

If your blood sugar level drops below 70 mg/dl, you may experience a fast heartbeat, sweating, and shaking. However, people with autonomic diabetes neuropathy may miss these symptoms of hypoglycemia.

  • Urinary tract infections

If nerves that control the bladder are destroyed, you may not fully empty the bladder. This can lead to the buildup of bacteria in the kidneys and bladder, causing infections of the urinary tract.

  • Sharp drop in your blood pressure

If the nerves that control blood flow are damaged, the body’s ability to control blood pressure may be affected. This can cause fainting and dizziness due to sharp drops in pressure, especially after standing.

Other complications of diabetic neuropathy include digestive problems, decreased or increased sweating, and sexual dysfunction.

How can you Prevent Diabetic Foot Numbness?

Diabetic neuropathy numbness and its complications can be prevented or delayed by managing blood glucose levels properly and taking good care of the feet.Neuropathy shoes

Foot care for diabetics

Good foot care practices include:

  • Checking your feet for cuts, peeling and cracked skin, swelling, redness, bruises, and blisters every day.
  • Keep your feet dry and clean
  • Trim toenails carefully
  • Moisturize your feet
  • Wear dry, clean socks
  • Wear shoes that fit well
  • Use cushioned shoes

Foot problems such as ulcers, sores that don’t heal and amputations are some complications of diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. However, these problems can be prevented by having a foot examination once a year and taking good care of the feet.

Read about diabetic foot swelling HERE!

diabetes toe numbness

Continue ReadingDo you Suffer from Diabetic Foot Numbness?

Medication for Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes is a lifelong condition affecting your insulin and blood sugar levels. One of the affiliations of diabetes is diabetic neuropathy. This condition often affects nerves in one’s feet or legs.

As with most medical conditions, diabetes and its side conditions have many remedies and medications. Below is a medication for diabetic neuropathy guide.

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Neuropathy socks diabetes It is a type of nerve damage occurring if you are diagnosed with diabetes. High glucose (blood sugar) levels can negatively affect the nerves throughout your body.

Medication for Diabetic Neuropathy

Depending on the nerves affected, diabetic neuropathy symptoms range from numbness and pain in the feet to complications in the digestive system, heart, and blood vessels.

The American Diabetes Association recommends immediate screening for diabetic neuropathy once you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. For type 1 diabetes, screening is recommended five years after diagnosis.

Unfortunately, diabetic neuropathy has no known cure. Therefore, the goal of seeking treatment and medication for diabetic neuropathy include:

Diabetic Neuropathy Medication

Before starting any medication for diabetic neuropathy, consult with your doctor to discuss the safety and potency of the medication. When managing and treating diabetic neuropathy, you will come across natural and pharmaceutical remedies.

Over-the-Counter Medication for Diabetic Neuropathy

OTC medication provides pain relief, especially if your diabetic neuropathy is in its early stages. However, avoid taking these without first consulting your doctor. For nerve pain relief, you can use topical medications, for example, Capsaicin cream, which is applied directly to the skin to reduce pain.

Some examples of FDA-approved prescription medications that are used to treat diabetic neuropathy include:

  • Lyrica
  • Cymbalta
  • Nucynta.

Prescription medication available for diabetic neuropathy are:

Anti-depressants: These medications block pain messages from getting to your brain

Anti-seizures (anti-epileptics and anti-convulsants): These slow down the nerve signals heading to your brain, subsequently hindering pain messages.

Opioids: These are highly potent analgesics. Opioids provide immediate relief from intense pain. However, opioids can be highly addictive and should be used under a doctor’s strict medication.Can a diabetic use a TENS machine

Topical medication: A common topical prescription medication is a lidocaine patch that relieves pain, especially on the feet.

TENS: This is an FDA-approved non-medication treatment for diabetic neuropathy. The SENSUS Pain Management device

Natural Remedies for Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy socksGeneral OTC medication focus on reducing pain and discomfort. In addition, several natural treatments and remedies can help reduce symptoms and manage diabetic neuropathy(peripheral neuropathy). These include:

Vitamins

A few cases of diabetic neuropathy are related to vitamin deficiencies. A vitamin deficiency can cause significant nerve damage.

Generally, vitamin B is vital for your nerve health. While you can get vitamin B from supplements, a natural alternative is to consume Vitamin B-rich meals. Another functional vitamin is vitamin D that also hinders nerve pain.

According to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy, the vitamins and supplements that can help you manage diabetic neuropathy include:

  1. Vitamin E
  2. B-complex vitamins
  3. Acetyl-l-carnitine (ACL)
  4. Alpha-lipoic acid
  5. Omega-3 fatty acids
  6. Glutamine
  7. Magnesium and calcium
  8. N-acetylcysteine.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin which is used in topical creams for its pain-relieving properties. Capsaicin reduces the intensity of pain signals sent via the body. Adding cayenne pepper into your diet can help manage diabetic neuropathy.

Acupuncture

This ancient treatment method promotes natural healing by stimulating your body’s pressure points. It triggers the nervous system to release chemicals that can alter the pain threshold or experience. Moreover, it promotes an energy balance in your body that affects your emotional well-being.

Dietary Changes to Help Diabetic Neuropathy

Dietary changes that lower your blood sugar levels ease or prevent the symptoms of neuropathy. A fiber-rich diet or one low in simple carbs prevents blood sugar spikes. Moreover, avoiding the following products might help prevent diabetic neuropathy:

  1. Sweets
  2. Processed snacks
  3. White bread products, including pasta.

Alternative dietary changes you can make include:

  1. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake
  2. Limiting intake of trans or saturated fats
  3. Consuming fewer than 2,300mg of sodium daily
  4. Eating high fiber foods
  5. Eating antioxidant-rich foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, blueberries, and flaxseed oil, which fight inflammation

Bottom Line

There is no known cure for diabetic neuropathy. However, the above medication for diabetic neuropathy can help diabetic patients manage their condition efficiently. Consult your doctors before using any peripheral neuropathy remedy, whether natural or pharmaceutical, to avoid complications.

Medication for diabetic Neuopathy

Continue ReadingMedication for Diabetic Neuropathy