Nutrition
Dietary management of diabetes mellitus
Drinking alcohol and smoking can cause diabetes
This week’s article will be the last chapter on the diabetes series, and we will discuss the important lifestyle changes we need to adopt to help fight diabetes.
Obesity is a massive risk factor leading to the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
An ideal weight is a step closer in achieving a normal blood sugar, hence the role of exercise in controlling diabetes cannot be over-emphasised.
Smoking and alcohol consumption are fast leading to a rise in our blood sugar. Though it may be difficult to stop these habits abruptly, we must try our best to stop smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol to save ourselves from diabetes.
Foods high in cholesterol, for example cheese, butter, and red meat, greatly increase the incidence of diabetes. Reducing these kinds of foods in our diet will greatly reduce our chances of becoming diabetic.
Fizzy drinks are a huge reason some of us end up becoming diabetic, and this fact cannot be sugar-coated. We must cut down on these drinks as soon as possible if we hope to grow up free from diabetes.
The take-home message from all this is that we should do all we can to prevent diabetes, because it comes with a lot of serious complications and problems. Changing our bad habits, one day at a time, will go a long way in prolonging our state of good health.
The writer is a Dietitian withHolistic Health Consult. Email: info@holistichealthconsult.org
By Bernice Korkor Asare
Tubani is a meal mostly consumed in the northern region of Ghana.
Ingredients
-Black-eyed pea flour(white beans flour) /cow pea flour
-Water
Method
-Add water to the black-eyed pea flour in a bowl and beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy
-Pour some water into a saucepan and boil
-Wash corn husk and put some at the base of the saucepan on the fire
-Put some of the fluffy mixtures of black-eyed pea flour and water into some of the leaves and wrap
-Put the wrapped food gently into the water on the fire and let it cook for some time
-Cover the top of the water in the saucepan with some of the leaves
-Cover with the saucepan’s lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
-Served with fried seasoned tomatoes and onions (chopped) and pepper. -Pulse.gh
Benefits of Black-eyed pea
-Rich source of plant-based protein
-Supports digestive health
-Helps manage blood sugar levels
-Promotes heart health
-Enhances bone strength
-Boosts immune function
-Supports weight management
-Improves mental health and cognitive function
Groundnut oil has essential nutrients. It is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. Additionally, it contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports healthy skin and eyes. Groundnut oil also provides phytosterols, plant compounds that help lower cholesterol levels, and resveratrol, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
– Heart Health
The high content of unsaturated fats in groundnut oil makes it an excellent choice for heart health. These fats help reduce bad cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol) and increase good cholesterol levels (HDL cholesterol), thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases.
-Rich in antioxidants
Wood Pressed Groundnut oil contains vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralising harmful free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.
-Aids digestion
Groundnut oil is gentle on the digestive system, making it easy to digest. It also helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, promoting overall digestive health.
-Boosts immune system
The presence of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in wood pressed groundnut oil enhances the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.
– Weight management
Despite being calorie-dense, cold pressed groundnut oil can be part of a balanced diet. Its healthy fat content helps in making you feel full and satisfied, reducing overall calorie intake.
– Stable at high temperatures
Groundnut oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for deep frying and high-heat cooking methods. Unlike some other oils, it does not break down and release harmful compounds at high temperatures.
Using groundnut oil can contribute to your overall well-being. However, like all oils, moderation is key. It’s important to use any oil, including groundnut oil, in moderation to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
In conclusion, groundnut oil stands as a testament to nature’s bounty, offering not only a delightful culinary experience but also a myriad of health benefits.
