According to the American Diabetes Association, there are 10 superfoods that are particularly good for maintaining a low glycemic diet. To consume as many of these foods as possible means keeping your diabetes in check so that you can continue to live a healthy life with few complications.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes don’t just belong in casseroles anymore! They contain high quantities of Vitamin A and are packed with fiber, both of which are important nutrients that the typical American doesn’t get enough of. Slice them, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with a little salt for an alternative to french fries.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
Kale, collared greens, and spinach are three dark leafy greens that contain high amounts of insoluble fiber, which means that they will keep you full for longer without packing on the calories. You can eat tons of these vegetables without having much of an impact on your caloric intake.
Berries
Berries are full of fiber, vitamins, and anti-oxidants, which makes them an ideal sweet treat for people with diabetes. If you have trouble finding fresh berries in the wintertime, frozen will work too. They carry the same nutritional content without the hefty price tag.
Tomatoes
Vitamin C, iron, and Vitamin E pack a punch in tomatoes, no matter how you eat them. Growing tomatoes is an easy way to get them inexpensively, and canning them for the wintertime makes them accessible all year long.
Nuts
Healthy fats make nuts a quick, easy, and healthy snack that keeps hunger at bay. Walnuts and flaxseeds are also deliverers of omega-3 fatty acids, which are shown to reduce blood pressure and increase circulation.
Skim Milk and Yogurt
Calcium is important to maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Skim milk and yogurt also contain high quantities of Vitamin D, which may help boost your energy levels throughout the day. If you are lactose intolerant, choose a lactose free milk alternative.
Salmon
Salmon and other fish that contain high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids are an excellent source of protein. Aim to eat 6 to 9 ounces of fish each week, but avoid breaded and deep fried varieties — those don’t help your health as much as they hurt it.
Citrus Fruits
The Vitamin C in citrus fruits boosts your immune system and keeps your overall system fighting viruses. Citrus fruits also contain a healthy dose of fiber, which helps create a feeling of fullness without many calories.
Whole Grains
Processed grains don’t contain the nutrients, like folate, potassium and Omega-3 fatty acids, which you find in whole grains. Whole grains keep you satisfied for longer because of their fiber content, and because they turn to sugar more slowly than their processed counterparts.