By being diabetic, it can be a daunting task to control it and live the best life you want. However, it is crucial to follow the right things to live a stress-free life despite having diabetes. Therefore, figuring out the suitable type of food and adding them to your diet plays an important role for an individual with diabetes.
We got you covered with a list of food items a diabetic person can try out and create a better and healthy lifestyle.
1. Leafy green vegetables
These are packed with many vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are essential for the body. Therefore, they are efficient in controlling diabetes as they contain low carbohydrates absorbed by the body when compared to other vegetables.
Some leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, and cabbage are great sources of vitamin C in particular which is found in low levels for those with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, by consuming these green vegetables, diabetic individuals can potentially increase the levels of vitamin C in them. Additionally, these leafy greens contain antioxidants that can protect the heart and eyes from any complications that may cause due to diabetes.
Diabetic individuals may ideally eat these green vegetables by adding them to salads and soups.
2. Certain spices
Spices such as cinnamon and turmeric can instill a significantly positive impact for those suffering from diabetes. According to research, having ΒΌ teaspoon of cinnamon for a day can reduce blood sugar levels extensively. Moreover, cinnamon can also improve the sensitivity of insulin and lower the levels of a specific hemoglobin type.
Turmeric, on the other hand, reduces the risk of heart disease while reducing the levels of blood sugar and any inflammations. It can also protect the health of kidneys.
Cinnamon can be consumed by sprinkling it on yogurt or smoothies which can add flavor without the addition of sugar and salt. To benefit the most from turmeric it is necessary to activate its crucial ingredient, curcumin by mixingit with black pepper when preparing any dish using turmeric. It can be incorporated even into a glass of milk which is another easy way to incorporate turmeric into your diet.
3. Oatmeal
Oats are one of the whole grains that is an ideal choice of food to lower the level of blood sugar. In addition, consuming oats can improve insulin sensitivity. The soluble fiber in oats slows down the process of breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates obtained from other food, and thus minimizes the spike in the blood sugar levels.
Although gluten is not harmful to diabetic patients, it is more preferable to consume gluten free oats due to the benefits it can provide for those with diabetes. Furthermore, many food items containing gluten in them may increase the blood sugar levels of an individual.
4. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a better substitute for white potatoes for individuals with diabetes. This is because although they have a sweet taste, they release sugar comparatively slower and prevent the rise in blood sugar levels. They are also enriched with fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C which are beneficial for diabetic people.
Sweet potatoes can be consumed either boiled, baked, or mashed along with leafy green vegetables and any lean protein.