Diabetes is often considered a "disease of affluence." Rather than treating it after onset, prevention is key to avoiding its burdens. Research suggests that drinking tea might be a good choice for preventing diabetes.
Studies from the United States and Japan have found that black tea contains a substance that can lower blood sugar levels, potentially helping prevent Type 2 diabetes.
A previous survey involving 300,000 participants showed that people who drink three to four cups of tea daily have a 25% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes compared to those who don't drink tea or drink it only occasionally.
The research suggests that the preventive effect of tea on diabetes is not affected by whether milk is added.
Expert Dr. Tim Bond stated that the study further supports the benefits of drinking about three cups of tea a day for diabetes prevention. "Tea is a very popular beverage in the UK, and the latest survey results, along with other published research, demonstrate that this drink is beneficial for health, particularly for the heart and vascular system," he said.
Dietary Tips for Diabetes:
1. Pay Attention to Protein Intake
Recent views suggest that a long-term high-protein diet may worsen the kidneys' high filtration state while increasing the production and retention of toxic nitrogen metabolites, leading to further kidney damage. Therefore, it is recommended to moderately limit protein in the diet for diabetic kidney disease to reduce kidney harm.
2. Consume More Whole Grains; Under Total Calorie Control, Carbohydrates Should Account for About 55%-60% of Total Calories
In daily diets, people with diabetes should choose more complex carbohydrates and whole grains, especially high-fiber vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. The intake of simple sugars, such as sucrose, maltose, glucose, and foods containing these sugars, should be strictly limited. To improve taste, people with diabetes can use non-caloric sweeteners like xylitol.
3. Eat Regular, Measured Meals and Maintain a Consistent Eating Pattern
Eat at least three meals a day, regularly and in measured portions, with 4-5 hours between meals. Patients who inject insulin or are prone to hypoglycemia should also have 2-3 snacks between the three main meals, setting aside portions from the main meals for snacks. This is an effective measure to prevent hypoglycemia.
4. Aim for High Calcium and Low Phosphorus
Foods high in calcium are often high in phosphorus, such as animal brains, offal, pork ribs, dried shrimp, and bone-strengthening powders. These should not be consumed in large quantities.