Type 2 Diabetes Is Attracted to Unhealthy Fats

You already know that avoiding too many fats can help prevent type 2 diabetes. But what if we told you that eating the right type of fats could also reduce your risk? According to a recent study lead by the dean of the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University in Boston, it turns out that the type of fats consumed have an impact on blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. During the study, which included over 4,000 adults, participants were provided meals with varying amounts of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and carbohydrates. Researchers then looked at how these dietary differences affected measures of metabolic health, including blood sugar and insulin levels. What did they find? Unlike a diet filled with carbohydrates or saturated fat, a diet rich in monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fat actually has the power to improve blood sugar control. The most consistent improvements were seen when the amount of polyunsaturated fats in the diet were increased. So what's the takeaway? While you don't have to completely ditch your pasta nights, to decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions, it's important to limit your intake of carbohydrates and saturated fats. Foods like bread, cakes, sugary drinks, cookies and sugary cereals should all be on the watch list. And whenever possible, try to complement your diet with a variety of foods high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats like nuts, seeds and vegetable oils. A simple change to your diet could just be the key to a long and healthy life.