Top 10 Power Foods for Diabetes

Unlike other serious medical complications, diabetes gives the patient freedom and flexibility to either lower the complications or increase it with diet control. To be healthy, a diabetic must eat a balanced diet as doing so can help him/her manage blood sugar levels apart from bringing cholesterol levels as well as blood pressure with the normal range.

You may also like to read: Diet for Diabetics.

Oatmeal

Oats are a healthy source of soluble fibre, which helps in reducing the LDL cholesterol levels while also smoothing the sugar levels. Opt for large and plain oat flakes or steel cut oats as these are slowly digested and do not have extra sugar. If you must sweeten, use a hypocaloric sweetner or add cinnamon and berries.

Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are rich sources of soluble fibre. Soluble fibre helps in controlling the blood sugar levels and LDL cholesterol levels. You may add a tbsp of ground flaxseeds to yoghurt, oatmeal, baked recipes or pasta.

You may also like to read: Best and Worst Meals for Diabetes.

Almonds

If you are looking for a snack that is satisfactory in terms of the number of nutrition, almond is your answer. Carry some almonds with you to your workplace in your car or purse to kill hunger pangs in between work.

Berries

Berries have the lowest level of carbohydrates and therefore, it is best for diabetics, who need the least amount of carbohydrates to manage sugar levels in the blood.

You may also like reading: Foods to Lower Blood Sugar Levels.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is the best source of dressing and can be used to drizzle over foods. Olive oil is dense with heart-protective monounsaturated fats that help in keeping the blood cholesterol levels under control.

Avocado

If you add a few slices of avocado to a salad, you will add healthy monounsaturated fats to your diet. Keeping the heart healthy using healthy fats helps prevent heart diseases that are linked with diabetes.

You may also like to read: Diet Dos and Don'ts for Diabetics.

Dark Chocolate

If you crave for a treat, choose dark chocolate. Pick one that has 70% cocoa content or higher to help keep the carbohydrate intake as low as you can. a few pieces of dark chocolate not only make a delicious dessert, but also help control diabetes.

Fish

Cold-water fatty fish, such as herring, sardines, salmon, albacore tuna and mackerel are dense with omega-3 fatty acids that help keep the heart healthy and improve concentration. Ensure to include at least two servings of fish every week.

Non-Starchy Vegetables

Non-starchy vegetables must form a great portion of your diet. These are rich in minerals, vitamins, fibre and antioxidants.

Legumes

Legumes in the form of lentils and beans should be a part of your diet as these are rick in protein and fibre. Besides, these do not cause a significant rise in the blood sugar levels.

Aforementioned food options should be included in a diabetic’s diet every day to help control diabetes better and live a healthy life.

Read more articles on Diabetes.