Diabetes has become common worldwide and diet plays a major role in the treatment of this disease. Following are top 10 healthy foods that people with diabetes should add to their diets.
1. Kale
Kale is rich in fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium and iron. This vegetable is also a great source of lutein, a carotenoid that is good for the eyes. This is especially important for people with diabetes because they may develop debilitating eye problems as complications of the disease.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the best choices for a diabetic along with kale. This non-starchy vegetable has low levels of calories while packed with high amounts of vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C and folic acid.
3. Brown rice
Brown rice is another healthy food for people with diabetes because it contains a compound that reduces nerve and blood vessel damage from the disease.
4. Beans
Apart from broccoli, kale and brown rice, beans are among the best foods for diabetics. They are loaded with calcium, protein and low in saturated fat. Especially, beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which keeps blood sugar from spiking after a meal and even lowers the overall blood sugar levels.
5. Watermelon
Watermelon is good not only for prostate health in men but also for diabetics. This fruit helps to limit the rise in blood sugar if eaten with other foods. Besides, it has a lot of nutrients such as fiber, potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C.
6. Peanut butter
According to some studies, peanut butter is linked with reduced diabetes risk. That may be because this classic comfort food is loaded with fiber and monounsaturated fat, which is consider heart healthy.
7. Fatty fish
Diabetics usually have low good cholesterol HDL and high triglycerides. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish can not only improve both numbers but also help keep the arteries clear.
8. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are also in the list of the top 10 diabetes superfoods. They provide high amounts of iron, vitamin E and vitamin C no matter how you like them raw, pureed or on a sauce.
9. Strawberries
Strawberries are good for people with diabetes because they don’t raise blood sugar too much despite their sweetness. What’s more, these fruits are rich in fiber but low in calories and carbohydrates.
10. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse that is good for diabetics. They are high in protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that can actually lower blood sugar.
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