November is about more than beards and turkeys; it’s also Diabetes Awareness Month. It might not get as much recognition as its older sister Pinktober, but organizations around the country practice Blue Fridays and host fundraisers for diabetes research throughout November.

Over 415 million people worldwide now have diabetes, a disease that disproportionately affects black people. According to the American Diabetes Association, African Americans are 70 percent more likely than Caucasians to have diagnosed diabetes. We are also more likely to have complications from the disease. Some estimates say black people have double or quadruple the chance of experiencing blindness, kidney failure and amputations than their white counterparts.

There are tons of factors that play into our more negative health outcomes, including social, political and economic conditions. Even with these grim statistics, we still have some control over our health outcomes. Eating right and exercising have always been important ways to prevent and combat diabetes. Here are few recipes from Eat Well America! These are great for preventing or managing diabetes without feeling like you’re eating cardboard.

Sweet Potatoes with Crumb Topping

Photo: Renee Comet via diabetesforecast.org

This is a great twist on a holiday dish that can be made with less than 10 ingredients. Can’t go wrong with sweet potatoes!

 

Sensational Chicken Burgers

Photo: Renee Comet via diabetesforecast.org

Craving a burger? This chicken burger will satisfy it! This recipe has some nice seasonings to give it some extra flavor.

 

Spaghetti With Creamy Avocado Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes

Photo: Renee Comet via diabetesforecast.org

Pasta rarely makes it to diabetes-friendly recipe lists but this one makes the cut. The avocado offers a creamy texture that will bring you straight to happiness.

 

Light and Fluffy Spinach and Cheese Strata

Photo: Renee Comet via diabetesforecast.org

This treat includes bacon and cheese. Need I say more?

 

Lady’s Sangria

Photo: Kelly Campbell Photo via diabetesforecast.org

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without a little wine included. This sangria is less than 300 calories per cup.


 

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