I work daily with many professional women who have prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes who struggle to lower their blood sugar levels. And to be honest I hear the same struggles from each one and answer the same questions every day. So, I am going to break them down here...
Challenge #1: I do not know what to eat, because eating healthy does not taste good.
Usually, is not that people "do not know". I find that people are confused and overwhelmed with all the noise in the media...keto, portion control, carnivore diet, intermittent fasting...which one will work?
Yes, there is a lot of nutrition information that can be simplified to eat more plant-rich fiber (I did not say salads only! And then add quality protein and fat. Finally, eliminate sources of sugar and reduce saturated fat.
Many times the "healthy food does not taste good" is a combination of taste buds exposed for many years to hyperpalable foods and mindset.
We have been exposed to food that is packaged with sugar, salt, and fat. These activate dopamine and opioid receptors in the brain. Aka, they taste good and make you feel good...so you eat more of them, and the cycle continues.
Many people are stuck. Does eating healthy mean a boring iceberg lettuce salad? Nope! Opening ourselves to trying new foods and meals rich in fiber and low in saturated fat will give you plenty of tasty options.
Challenge #2: I can not give up sugar! I crave sugar.
First, you do not need to refine sugar to survive. The sugar that is already in food items like fruits, veggies, legumes, and grains is what your body needs to function.
Second, eliminating table sugar and artificial sweeteners will have many health benefits. Consider using monk fruit, Stevia, and agave for healthier options to add sweetness to your taste buds.
Third, cravings...they will dissipate, but your brain needs time. Your body is not a microwave! The more you give into the refined/table sugar craving the longer it will take to heal your brain. When your body wants something sweet go for fruit, movement, and breath.
Challenge #3: I do not have time.
Let me ask you a question...How many years younger do want to die? How many years do you want to live with a disability?
Cooking healthy meals can be done in 30 minutes or less and give you back years to your life.
Have you thought of kitchen hacks to help you prep food faster without sacrificing health? Many little things can be added on. We have become so used to "fast food" and "microwave", but these are cheap options that will produce cheap results when it comes to balancing your blood sugar levels.
If any of these sound like your challenges, I offer a FREE Sugar Balance Assessment call for successful professional women in Texas, Colorado, Arizona, and Washington living with prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.