Group Topic: Blood Sugar Levels

#1 tip I've received from our doctor on maintaining good blood sugar levels is to choose foods that have the least impact on insulin levels. These are measured by their glycemic index. The lower the glycemic level, the less the impact on insulin levels. Eating small portions every few hours, helps curb hunger and maintain even insulin levels.

1) High fiber content and low glycemic action - Arugula, Asparagus, Bamboo Shoots, Bean Sprouts, Beet Greens, Bell Pepper (red, yellow and green), Brocolli, Broadbeans, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Cassava, Cauliflower, Celery, Chayote Fruit, Chicory, Chives, Collard Greens, Coriander, Cucumber, Dandelion Greens, Eggplant, Endive, Fennel, Garlic, Ginger Root, Green Beans, Hearts of Palm, Jicama (raw), Jalepeno Peppers, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens, Onions, Parsley, Radishes, Radicchio, Snap Beans, Snow Peas, Shallots, Spinach, Spaghetti Squash, Summer Squash, Swiss Chard, Turnip Greens, Watercress

2) Low glycemic fruit choices in moderation (if weight loss is a concern ... extreme moderation)

Berries (blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, elderberries, gooseberries, loganberries, strawberries)

3) Low fiber carbs with high and moderate glycemic and turn to sugar very quickly: Barley, Millet, Tapioca, AkMak Crackers, Sweet Potato or Yam, Brown Rice, Rye Whole Grain Breads, Ezekiel Bread, Buckwheat Groast (Kasha), Semolina (whole grain-dry), Whole Grain Cooked Cereals, Wasa crackers, Bulgar (tabouli), Steel cut oats, Whole Grains, Whole Grain Tortillas.

(food listings taken from our doctor's handouts)

Also, Monosodium Glutamate / Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein cause the pancreas to create 3x more insulin resulting in low blood sugar. (http://www.hbci.com/~wenonah/new/blood-s.htm#9) Read your labels...every one of them! You'd be surprised where MSG is an ingredient.

If you are dealing with diabetes or low blood sugar, the internet and our blog is no substitute for seeing your doctor or nutritionist. But there is a wealth of information on the web to help you make wise food choices and manage your blood sugar levels.