November is American Diabetes Month! This month, we’d like to bring awareness to the chronic health condition that affects millions of Americans every day. Diabetes can bring pain and problems to plenty of areas of the body – especially your feet. Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial when it comes to treating diabetes, as it can lessen the strain on your feet and ankles. Let’s take a look at some of the top tips nutritionists and dieticians have for managing diabetes.

Add More Veggies

Including vegetables in a meal has plenty of health benefits. Not only are they packed with fiber, but they provide little fat and salt content. The healthiest veggies you can pick are greens – spinach, kale, arugula, broccoli. Not only can you eat your vegetable of choice fresh, but you can also try steaming, roasting, or even grilling them for extra variety and flavor. Stay clear of canned veggies, as they have more sodium.

Bring On the Protein

There are plenty of options for nutrient-packed protein these days. Choosing lighter meats like chicken or fish is a great option. Or you could enjoy some vegetarian choices, like beans, nuts, seeds, or tofu. Try to limit fried protein options and higher-fat cuts of meat, such as bacon and ribs. Instead of buying regular milk and yogurt, go for low-fat or non-dairy alternatives, which are packed with protein, but offer less fat.

Limit Your Carbs

Despite what you might think, carbs aren’t so bad. In fact, our bodies need starch. But choosing the wrong kind of carbohydrates can create health issues. To avoid that, stay clear of white flour, sugary cereals, fried potatoes, and plain tortillas. Instead, go for healthier options, like brown rice, baked potatoes, oatmeal, or quinoa.

Walk Away from Sugary Drinks

One of the easiest ways to cut down on unnecessary sugar. Watch what you’re drinking! Our bodies function best when we get plenty of plain water. Soda, wine, beer, sweet teas, and sugary coffee drinks are all packed with sugar, salt, fat, and calories. Limit these drinks and pick up some healthier options at the store. Flavored sparkling water is a great alternative for those who enjoy fruity, bubbly drinks.

At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists, we are committed to providing specialized, compassionate services for our patients. Melissa Robitaille, DPM, and Todd Newsom, DPM offer treatments for various foot and ankle disorders with leading-edge technology. Contact our office in Chatham County at (912) 988-3323 to make an appointment today.