The European Association for the Study of Diabetes released new recommendations printed in the journal Diabetologia. Like so many US health care providers, and nutritionists, the European group recommends a plant-based diet to help manage glucose levels in diabetic patients, and to possibly prevent the onset of Type II Diabetes in those who have not yet been diagnosed with this life-altering condition.

Minimizing the consumption of processed, and red meats, while increasing the consumption of minimally processed plant foods could lead to a better quality of life for diabetics and pre-diabetics. Increasing daily fiber intake [found only in plant foods] can improve blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and weight, which can result in improved management of diabetes. The association concludes that diabetics should consume at least 35 grams of fiber a day. The American Heart Association recommends we consume 25-30 grams of fiber per day.

The Diabetes and Nutrition Study Group of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes included in their new dietary recommendations avoiding very low carbohydrate diets [including the ketogenic diet] expressing safety concerns. Consuming whole grains, as well as cooking pasta al dente [slightly firm to the tooth], should ensure a slow increase in glucose levels, preventing spikes that could present a problem for diabetics.

By the way, Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, and reversed it with a vegan diet. He lost weight, felt so much healthier and energetic, that he has been promoting the benefits of a vegan diet in the Big Apple. Dubbed the “plant based mayor,” Adams is encouraging city residents to practice Vegan Fridays, as a way of starting on the road to better health.

Dateline: Town of Colonie, Albany County, Capital Region of New York State