Diet Beats Medication to Control Diabetes

Don’t forget to take your meds and check your blood sugar levels. That’s a regular part of life for most people with diabetes.

In the United States, that’s an estimated 100 million people who already have diabetes or have pre-diabetes. Basically, 1 in 3 people have diabetes or are at risk for the disease. And if you don’t have diabetes, you probably know someone who does.

Left unchecked, it’s a condition that can cause nerve damage, poor circulation, and blindness. It can increase your risk for kidney damage, heart disease, and stroke. For years, health professionals have recommended lifestyle changes to help manage diabetes, but medication has been the most common way to treat the disease...until now.

New research is emerging that shows changes in diet can be a highly effective way to treat diabetes. In Pennsylvania’s Fresh Food Farmacy program led by Geisinger Health System, providing low-income patients and their families with fresh produce and information about healthy eating, can cut costs for medication and doctor’s visit by up to 80 percent, and help diabetics achieve normal blood sugar levels within a few months.

And it’s not the only evidence food can beat medication to control diabetes. Customized per patient, a special ketogenic dietary program created by Virta Health can help diabetics reduce blood sugar levels, lose weight, and reduce the need for medications in 10 weeks.

So what are these people eating to manage diabetes without the high cost of medications? Primarily more plant-based foods and healthier options than fast food, soda, deep-fried dishes, and sugary desserts.

Like what? Just check out the Diabetic-Friendly menu. Some of our newest meals include:

• Apple Glazed Pork with Sweet Potato Hash over Braised Cabbage with Raisins
• Breaded Baked Haddock with Orange Brown Rice and Asian Vegetables
• Cheese Omelet & Salsa, with Broccoli & Hash Browns
• Grilled Chicken Breast with Hickory Barbeque Sauce, Sweet Potato Hash and Broccoli
• Swiss Style Beef Patty with Mashed Potatoes Carrots And Cabbage

-And many others.

You hungry? Check out the complete Diabetes-Friendly menu made from fresh ingredients and ready to eat in minutes.