November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and sharing resources to support the millions affected by diabetes. With the right information and support, those living with diabetes can make impactful changes to their health and well-being—one of the most powerful being a shift to plant-based eating.

Both the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Cardiology now endorse plant-based diets as an effective method to manage diabetes. These organizations recognize that focusing on plant-based foods offers a sustainable way to manage blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity. As Dr. Michael Greger, a prominent advocate of plant-based nutrition, often highlights, "low-fat, plant-based diets are associated with improved glycemic control and may even help people with diabetes reduce their need for medications" (NutritionFacts.org).

But how exactly does a plant-based diet make such a difference?

Plant-based diets are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, all of which play a critical role in reducing insulin resistance and inflammation—two key factors in diabetes management. Research has shown that even people with long-standing diabetes who adopt a plant-based diet can see a reduction in diabetes-related complications. Dr. Michael Greger says that "plant-based diets are the single most important—yet underutilized—opportunity to reverse the pending obesity and diabetes-induced epidemic of disease and death" (NutritionFacts.org).

At Sweet Pea, our plant-based philosophy aligns closely with Dr. Greger's teachings, helping individuals harness the healing power of food. In a recent episode of our podcast, Shelling Peas, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Michael Greger to discuss the profound impact plant-based eating can have on diabetes management. In this podcast episode, Chef Ryan Jennings and Dr. Greger dive deep into the practical ways people can start incorporating these life-changing foods into their diets. Dr. Greger reminds us, “the most important decision we make every day for longevity is what we eat. This alone should be enough evidence to focus on the quality of food you put into your body for health and wellness."

This month and beyond, we encourage you to consider the impact of the foods you are eating.

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Visit our website to explore a plant-based lifestyle, listen to our podcast episodes with Chef Ryan Jennings, and begin your journey toward a healthier, diabetes-friendly diet.

For additional insights, visit nutritionfacts.org where you will discover more about the science behind plant-based eating and its potential to change lives.