How Fiber Can Help You Fight Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that can have a significant impact on the body if it is not controlled properly. For example, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy, which is kidney damage. If this condition isn't taken care of then it can eventually lead to kidney failure.

Diabetic nephropathy is caused by continuous high blood sugar levels. These high levels of blood sugar damage tiny blood vessels found in the kidneys that are responsible for removing waste from blood. When the blood vessels are damaged entirely, this is when kidney failure occurs.

Using Fiber to Control Diabetes

One way to control diabetes is by eating a high-fiber diet. A diet high in fiber also contributes to the body's overall health. When managing diabetes, the main goal is to keep blood sugar levels down and a diet high in fiber can make attaining this goal easier.

There are two types of fiber--soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber comes from foods such as oatmeal or barley. Soluble fiber thickens the contents of digesting food in your intestines, therefore it slows the absorption of sugar. This helps to prevent blood sugar level spikes after eating. Insoluble fiber helps to speed the passage of food out of the body.

Since fiber isn't absorbed by the body, it won't spike blood sugar and since fiber keeps people full for a longer period of time than other food, people tend to eat less when they eat a diet that is high in fiber. This contributes to weight loss, managing diabetes, and overall improved health.

Seek a Specialist in Internal Medicine in Jupiter for Diabetes-Related Kidney Disease

When managing diabetes and dealing with diabetic nephropathy, it may be necessary to seek help from a professional that specializes in helping patients with the condition. Dr. Abbas Rabiei, specialist in internal medicine in Jupiter, treats diabetic nephropathy and other kidney disease related to diabetes. He is a dedicated physician who takes pride in offering the best care to his patients. He can be reached at Coastal Nephrology at 561-253-8121 for appointments.