You already know that almonds are good for you. There is a bevy of almond products on the market. From almond milk to almond butter there is no shortage of the different ways you can eat almonds. But did you know that they could also be good for diabetics? These are three reasons why almonds are good for diabetics.
1. Heart Health
Diabetics are prone to more health conditions than other non-diabetics in the population. If you have diabetes, you are up to 4 times more likely to get a cardiovascular disease than those who do not have diabetes.
Fortunately, you can eat almonds to lower those risks. While eating them don’t eradicate the risk of cardiovascular disease completely, it does help. This is because almonds are full of good fat. Much like olive oil, almonds contain monosaturated fat that may help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. Magnesium
Almonds also provide a very high amount of magnesium. Those with type 2 diabetes are usually low in the magnesium level department. According to researchers, this may be because magnesium is lost in urine amongst people with high blood sugar levels. This is directly affected by the impairment of the kidneys as another complication of diabetes.
Magnesium is important for any body’s health. Studies have shown that regular consumption of magnesium can help lower the risks of getting type 2 diabetes.
3. Lower Glucose Levels
And lastly, eating almonds may impact glucose levels —in a good way. Studies indicate that a regular diet that includes almonds can help control blood sugar levels. As much as two handfuls of almonds can impact fasting glucose and fasting insulin by lowering its levels.
Alternatively, eating almonds may also help prediabetics as well. The study found that eating 20% of calories from almonds over a 4-month period improved insulin sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
These 3 reasons why almonds are good for diabetics are just a few of many reasons almonds are good. For everybody. And, incorporating them into your diabetic meal plan is easy. Simply eat them as a snack. Or use as a crunchy addition to other entrees.
