Managing blood sugar is highly important for people with diabetes. A wrong diet can spike the blood sugar level, worsening the symptoms. It is, therefore, essential to eat the right kind of food that may help blood sugar levels.
Figuring out the best foods while having diabetes can be tricky. It is important to eat foods that help prevent complications like heart disease. Our diet has a major role in preventing and managing diabetes. Here are the eight best foods for people with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2.
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Leafy greens: Green vegetables are low in calories and extremely nutritious. They are also very low in digestible carbs. Therefore, they do not affect the blood sugar levels. Leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are good sources of iron, minerals, and vitamins including vitamin C. Vitamin C generally acts as a potent antioxidant and is rich in has anti-inflammatory qualities. Increasing dietary intake of vitamin C-rich foods can help people with diabetes increase their serum vitamin C levels while reducing inflammation and cellular damage.
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Beans: Beans are nutritious and super healthy. Beans are rich in vitamins B, fiber and are low glycemic index, which is vital for managing diabetes. Consuming beans may also reduce the chance of developing diabetes.
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Avocados: Avocados are high in fiber, have less than 1 gram of sugar, few carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This is why they are extremely safe in diabetes, as they do not raise blood sugar levels. Additionally, avocadoes are good for weight management. They are an ideal snack for people with diabetes.
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Broccoli is one of the most nutritious vegetables and highly recommended for people with diabetes. Including broccoli in the diet can help manage blood sugar levels. It is a low-calorie, low-carb food with high nutrient value. It is loaded with healthy plant compounds that may help protect against various diseases.
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Eggs: Consuming eggs regularly may reduce risk of heart disease in several ways. Eggs may decrease inflammation, increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and modify the size and shape of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Having eggs daily can help people with diabetes to reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Fatty fish: Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, like sardines, salmon, herring, mackerel, and anchovies, are beneficial for heart health and do not affect the blood sugar level. Getting enough of these fats regularly is vital for people with diabetes, who have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Furthermore, fatty fish may also help regulate blood sugar.
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Strawberries are high in antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which give them their red color. Strawberries are low-sugar fruits with strong anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve insulin resistance. They also contain polyphenols, beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help regulate blood sugar levels.
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Garlic: It is incredibly nutritious and helps lower blood sugar, inflammation, LDL cholesterol, and blood pressure in people with diabetes.
Diabetes is a condition that, if not managed and controlled properly, may cause serious health complications. Therefore, it is vital to focus on what one eats while having diabetes. One must consult a dietitian for tailor made diet to suit one’s specific need.
