Diabetes and diet? A nutrition expert weighs in on healthy food choices and myths

The iron that gives red meat its color can damage the pancreas if not eaten in moderation and increase the risk for diabetes. Red meat should be consumed in moderation. (stock.adobe.com)

More than 10% of Americans have diabetes and roughly half of us are at risk for the disease, but most don’t know how to eat to prevent the worst outcomes.

To some degree, the advice is the same as what nutritionists say is good for everyone: Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. And avoid heavily processed, packaged foods.