Listen to Episode 53 of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast: Using Food as Fuel and Medicine
Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox, where we are on a mission to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time! I am Renee Reid, an emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher. Today, we are diving into how to shift our perspective on food: using it as fuel and medicine rather than for comfort. This mindset shift can make a powerful difference in managing diabetes, helping you feel more energized, balanced, and in control.
For many people, food is an emotional crutch. But, using food to manage emotions can lead to blood sugar spikes, weight gain, and more difficulty managing diabetes. Instead, think of food as nourishment for your body and partner with it to support your health goals. Here is how.
1. See Food as Fuel for Your Body’s Needs
Every meal is an opportunity to feed your cells with nutrients that boost your energy, support stable blood sugar, and keep cravings in check. Focusing on balanced meals with fiber, protein, and healthy fats can provide steady energy and prevent the crashes that often lead to comfort eating.
Tip: Start planning balanced meals for the day. Think about how each ingredient will keep you full and satisfied, and choose foods you genuinely enjoy—healthy eating does not have to mean restriction.
2. Use Food as Medicine to Manage Blood Sugar
When you see food as medicine, making choices supporting blood sugar control is easier. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can play an important role in reducing inflammation and insulin resistance, making it easier to manage your diabetes.
Tip: Add more non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to each meal. Experiment with new spices or flavors to keep your meals exciting and fulfilling.
3. Practice Mindful Eating to Break the Cycle of Emotional Eating
Emotional eating often happens when we are on autopilot, reaching for snacks without thinking. Mindful eating can help you tune into your body’s real hunger signals and slow down to enjoy each bite. This approach brings awareness to why you are eating, helping you make more conscious, balanced choices.
Tip: Before reaching for food, ask yourself if you are truly hungry or if something else might trigger your desire to eat. Take a few deep breaths to check in with your body and notice if there is another way to address your feelings, like going for a walk or calling a friend.
Making these shifts is not always easy, but with small, consistent changes, you will start noticing the difference in your energy, blood sugar levels, and overall well-being.
Before we go, I want to remind you about the It’s Not Over Until I Win collection at Renee & Ruby’s. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just a pick-me-up, these items are designed to inspire persistence and resilience. Plus, every purchase helps support The Diabetic Toolbox and our mission to reach more people with diabetes support. So, check out Renee & Ruby’s today and find an inspiring gift!
And in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, I have another special offer. If you are ready to tackle emotional eating head-on, download our Emotional Eating and Diabetes: Taking Back Control book bundle, now 20% off! This guide is designed to help you break free from emotional eating, build a personalized plan, and manage your diabetes with confidence. So, grab your bundle today—your future self will thank you!
To continue the conversation, follow the blog for more insights on managing diabetes, lifestyle tips, and community stories. Do not forget to join us tomorrow when we discuss the importance of knowing when to change your shoes.
Take our quiz to learn how your emotions might influence your eating habits and take back control for better health. When you download our “Is Your Hunger Real?” quiz, you will receive a free mini eBook, Relax and Recharge: Easy-to-Implement Tools to Help You Manage Your Sleep for Better Health and Less Stress. This guide is packed with strategies to improve sleep and reduce stress, empowering you to take control of your well-being.
Until next time, take care of yourself and each other. Share this post with someone you love, and tell us how you manage eating emotionally; I will talk to you soon!
With Peace & Love,
Renee
Disclaimer:
This podcast provides general information and discussions about health and wellness topics. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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