INSULIN RESISTANCE

• Insulin is produced by the pancreas to process the blood sugar
• Insulin resistance occurs when the body is unable to process blood glucose in our bodies resulting in high levels of blood glucose

National Diabetes Statistics Report

METABOLISM

• Metabolism is the process by which our body converts fuel in the food we consume into energy that is needed for our bodies to function 
• Boost your metabolism with exercise and a diet that is high in fiber such as oatmeal and good fats such as avocado

A1C

• The A1C test is a blood test that is administered every three months to track blood glucose (blood sugar) in your body
• In general, the A1C should be below 7 to avoid diabetes complications

For more information see National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

DIABETES MANAGEMENT IN THE KITCHEN

Apple Cider Vinegar

• Prevents some of the food starch from being digested and raising blood sugar level
• Also good to lower triglycerides

ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants are molecules that destroy harmful free radicals in our bodies

Food sources:

• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Dark chocolate
• Coffee
• Garlic
• Cranberries
• Grape skin
•  Tea

FREE RADICALS

Free Radicals

• Our body creates free radicals during the process of converting food to energy.       
• Free radicals damage our body cells resulting in oxidative stress
• Antioxidants destroy free radicals

AMINO ACIDS

Amino acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. Amino acids and proteins are the building blocks of life.
When proteins are digested or broken down, amino acids are left. The human body uses amino acids to make proteins to help the body:

• Break down food
• Grow
• Repair body tissue
• Perform many other body functions

The 9 essential amino acids are:

• histidine
• isoleucine
•  leucine
• lysine
• methionine
• phenylalanine
• threonine
• tryptophan 
• valine.  

Amino acids can also be used as a source of energy by the body.
Amino acids are classified into three groups:

• Essential amino acids
• Nonessential amino acids
• Conditional amino acids

Source: National Library of Medicine