The 7 Best Foods for Diabetics

Diabetes, one of the most common and serious diseases, can be difficult to manage. Diet, physical activity, medication, and lifestyle all play a crucial role in maintaining a patient’s blood sugar level. Since the disease can also lead to other complications, such as heart disease and eye disorders, it is important to manage it well. Here are the top recommended foods for people with diabetes, type 1 and type 2.

1. Oily fish

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, fatty fish such as mackerel, anchovies, herring, salmon, and sardines are often recommended for diabetics. Consuming them regularly can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

2. Eggs

Eggs, one of the healthiest foods, are also beneficial for diabetics. They are known to improve insulin sensitivity, change the size and shape of LDL (bad cholesterol), increase HDL (good cholesterol), and reduce inflammation. Eating eggs for breakfast can help maintain a person’s blood sugar levels throughout the day. Additionally, studies show that regularly eating whole eggs (yolk + white) may reduce the risk of certain eye conditions, strokes, and heart disease.

3. Leafy Greens

Recommended for many health conditions, leafy green vegetables also help manage diabetes. Due to their high nutritional value and low calorie content, vegetables such as kale and spinach are considered the healthiest foods. The antioxidants and high vitamin C content they contain can help reduce inflammation and cell damage. This contributes to eye and heart health, and thus prevents the common complications of diabetes.

4. Lawyers

Here’s another reason to include avocados in your regular diet. Their high fiber content, healthy fats and low carb content make them ideal for diabetics as they do not raise blood sugar levels when consumed.

5. Chia seeds

Considered one of the “super foods” by health-conscious people around the world, chia seed can help maintain blood glucose levels, which is beneficial for people with diabetes. They are low in digestible carbohydrates and high in fiber and may aid blood sugar management in diabetic patients.

6. Nuts

Nuts are one of the best substitutes for unhealthy processed snacks because they’re low in net carbs and contain high amounts of fiber and other nutrients. Research shows that eating a variety of nuts on a regular basis can help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, blood sugar levels, and inflammation. Thus, nuts are highly recommended for people with diabetes to improve and maintain their heart health.

7. Apple cider vinegar

The benefits of apple cider vinegar are well known, but what you might not know is that it can also help improve fasting blood sugar. It can be consumed daily by adding a teaspoon to a glass of water.

Conclusion

There is as yet no proven cure for diabetes. All you can do is manage it to avoid further complications. So, incorporate the above-mentioned foods into your diet, exercise regularly, and take prescribed medications on time to be healthier. You can consult with the experienced Dietitians at HJ Hospitals to get a personalized diet plan based on your other bodily needs and your overall health. HJ Hospitals offers a variety of health care services ranging from dental care, cosmetic care, emergency care, general care and laparoscopy to maternal and child care, among others.