2 million adolescents (or 1 in 6 overweight adolecents)
age 12-19 have pre-diabetes.
-ADA

What is Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Only 5-10% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can lead to complications.

The American Diabetes Association developed this list of top 10 "super" foods that will work best in a diabetic diet. All the foods in this list have a low glycemic index, or GI, and provide key nutrients that are lacking in the typical western diet.

1-Beans (kidney, pinto, navy and black beans)

2-Dark Green Leafy Vegetables (spinach, collard, kale)

3-Citrus Fruit (grapefruit, oranges, lemons and limes)

4-Sweet Potatoes

5-Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc)

6-Tomatos (pureed, raw or in a sauce)

7-Fish High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids (salmon and other unfried fish)

8-Whole Grains

9-Nuts

10-Fat-free Milk and Yogurt