6 diabetes prevention tips you could start doing right away

Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest-growing diseases in the country. The good news is that it can be prevented or postponed by making healthy lifestyle choices. Here are a few tips on healthy eating, diabetes prevention and management from the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Eat three meals a day at regular times and space meals no more than six hours apart. You may benefit from a healthy snack. Eating at regular times helps your body control blood glucose (sugar) levels.

Limit sugars and sweets, such as sugar, regular pop, desserts, candies, jam and honey. The more sugar you eat, the higher your blood glucose will be.

Limit the amount of high-fat food you eat, such as fried foods, chips and pastries. High-fat foods may cause you to gain weight. A healthy weight helps with blood glucose (sugar) control and is healthier for your heart.

Eat more high-fibre foods such as whole grain breads and cereals, lentils, dried beans and peas, brown rice, vegetables and fruits. Foods high in fibre may help you feel full and may lower blood glucose (sugar) and cholesterol levels.

If you are thirsty, drink water. Drinking regular pop and fruit juice will raise your blood glucose (sugar).

Add physical activity to your life. Regular physical activity will improve your blood glucose (sugar) control. Plus, exercise is a fun activity to add to your life, and you can enjoy it with your loved ones.