Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body develops an enhanced resistance to the effects of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that converts glucose, or sugar, into energy for the body. As patients with diabetes are possessed of a greater degree of resistance to the effects of insulin, they have a hazardously excessive amount of glucose floating throughout their bloodstream, resulting in symptoms of increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and frequent infections. If blood sugar remains unmanaged, patients may require an insulin pump to manage their condition. They could also develop permanent nerve damage, vision loss, kidney disease, or even suffer a heart attack or stroke. In addition to medications prescribed by your doctor to treat diabetes (i.e., insulin), medical professionals often recommend certain dietary changes, such as low-sugar snacks to help keep blood sugar within a healthy range: 1. Mixed nuts A mixture of nuts is a very healthy and effective snack for feeling full. Not only are you eating something with a relatively low level of carbohydrates, mixed nuts are also rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Those healthy fats can also help reduce LDL, what people refer to as “bad” cholesterol. Lastly, a mixture of nuts like cashews, peanuts, and almonds can keep that crucial blood sugar nice and regular, diminishing the chances of a spike or plummet in blood glucose levels.

In the pursuit of a restful night’s sleep, exploring natural sleep aids through diet is an invaluable strategy. While OTC sleep aids like Advil, NyQuil, Tylenol PM, and Excedrin PM may offer temporary relief, incorporating sleep-friendly foods into your diet can be a sustainable approach to improve sleep quality. In this listicle, we unveil seven delicious and nutritious foods that can contribute to better sleep, reducing the reliance on over-the-counter medications. 1. Cherries for natural melatonin Cherries, particularly tart cherries, are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Consuming cherries or tart cherry juice may help increase melatonin levels in the body, promoting a more restful and quality sleep. 2. Bananas for magnesium and potassium Bananas are rich in both magnesium and potassium, essential minerals that play a role in muscle relaxation and nerve function. Magnesium, in particular, can help calm the nervous system, making bananas a convenient and nutritious bedtime snack to aid in winding down. 3. Fatty fish with omega-3 fatty acids Fatty fish like salmon and trout are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their numerous health benefits, including sleep promotion. Omega-3s may increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to relaxation and better sleep.