The most important thing in choosing the food for diabetics is to get the food with low glycemic index or GI. In addition, it should be something that provides the key nutrients such as: Calcium, Potassium, Fiber, Magnesium, and Vitamins A, C and E (American Diabetes Association).
Always remember that in controlling blood sugar level is moderation. Therefore, it is important to take note that even if you know these foods, ultimately it is still all about discipline on what to eat. So here’s the list of super foods for diabetics.
Beans
It’s always better to have some fresh beans, but if you don’t have a fresh one, the canned beans can work well. ½ cup of beans can provide protein which is as much as an ounce of meat. It is also a good source of magnesium and potassium.
Citrus Fruit
There are different kinds of citrus fruits. They are usually good source of vitamin C. Whether oranges, lemons, limes, dalandan, ponkan, kiat kiat and even kalamansi can be a good alternatives.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potato is a good alternative for rice. For many Asians, rice is very considered to be a major food. It is the bread of the Westerns. However, instead of eating rice or bread, sweet potato is better to use.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
You are free to eat a LOT of dark green leafy vegetables. It is very low in calories and carbohydrates.
Whole Grains
Oatmeal is the main example of whole grain. It is rich in potassium and fiber.
Fish
Preferably go for the fish that is high in omega 3 fatty acids. Tuna and salmon are good examples for these fishes.
Nuts
Choose the better nuts. Flax seeds and walnuts are better choices than peanut. Again, be careful though because nuts can also be a good cause of arthritis so better moderate your consumption of nuts.
Tomatoes
I love tomatoes. I love eating it raw with just a little salt in it. But no matter how you want to take it, it doesn’t matter. It is rich with vitamin C and E, and iron.
Fat-free Milk
Dairy products are generally good for diabetics even Yogurt. However, just make sure that that is fat-free so that it will not contribute added problems like too much cholesterol.
Berries
Strawberry is probably the most common kind of berry. Blueberry can also be as good as strawberry. It is jam packed with antioxidants and fiber.
Notice that almost all of these foods except the fat-free milk and fish, all of them came from vegetables and fruits. This tells us that we need to consume more of it rather than meat.
Source: American Diabetes Association
